Coolant & Hydraulic Line Abrasion
Though I'd share a recent experience on a trip in which I noticed coolant leaking on the road when I was backing into our camp spot. I investigated when I shut down and found the hydraulic supply line to the radiator fan motor had rubbed a hole in the lower radiator connecting steel pipe. That hydraulic line rested on the top of the steel pipe and over time rubbed through the hose rubber jacket, two plys of steel braid and was about to spray hot hydraulic fluid out. The radiator pipe wore through first so instead it shot a fine spray of coolant all over the underside behind the left rear tire/suspension. Not sure how much coolant we left on the highway but had no warning light or overheating prior to shutting down.
Fortunately I carry enough tools to remove the connecting pipe and drive it 60 miles to the nearest muffler shop who did a crude patch on it. I bought 2 cases of coolant, some 1" hose and an assortment of clamps and headed back to camp to replace everything.
The patch held for the return home trip. Once home I again removed the pipe, did a better job of welding, sanded the pipe down and repainted. Then I started inspecting the multiple hoses by the radiator and found several with abrasion from bending around metal parts/frame members etc. I replaced the main hydraulic line to the fan motor, replaced a section of the power steering return line, and using 1" hose slit lengthwise I added protection to any area that was contacting hoses. I also secured the hoses as most of the loop clamps were broken and not doing anything to hold lines in place. Then I checked the charge air cooler hose and found it had lost some bands and was expanding into the side of the radiator rubbing a nice hole through 3 of the 4 plys. Replaced that as well.
There are several hoses running around the radiator and transmission subject to abrasion. I have spent quite a bit of time under there but had never done a close examination of the hoses or the mounts for them until now.
I came very close to having a hydraulic disaster potentially burning up my new pump. I would suggest you inspect the hoses or have someone capable do a through inspection to prevent some road side disaster.
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2019 Outdoors RV Blackstone 270RKS Titanium
04 Country Coach 33' Allure Seaside ISL 400
24' Wildcat 5th Wheel -- Lance Truck Camper x 2
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