© 2020 Pierce Manufacturing Inc. All Rights Reserved. Operating the Engine / 5-39
OPERATION
5-20. Cooling System
Adequate coolant must be maintained in the cooling system to prevent engine overheat. Check the coolant level by
observing the sight glass or by checking the low coolant warning indicator on the instrument panel electronic display
(if equipped).
Refer to “Antifreeze Type” on page 6-23 and the engine manufacturer operator’s manual for proper coolant
selection, inhibitor levels, and mixing procedures.
Pierce Custom Chassis are configured to engage the fan during pumping operations. All 2010 EPA & 2013 EPA
engines are configured to engage the fan clutch when the parking brake is applied and the pump is engaged. This
is done to prevent water pressure fluctuations (that may occur when the fan engages and disengages), help cool
the steering system, improve air conditioning performance, and cool exhaust components, particularly when trucks
are operating at elevated high idles for extended periods of time.
Always allow the engine to cool before opening the pressure cap. Wrap a thick, heavy cloth around the
cap. Push down, and turn the cap to the first notch position. Pause before opening completely to allow
any remaining pressure to escape. Follow this procedure to avoid burns from hot steam or coolant.
Do not operate the engine if the cooling fan is worn, notched, bent, damaged in any manner, or comes
in contact with any other chassis component while spinning, or personal injury or death may result.
The optional emergency radiator refill feature allows the engine cooling system to be replenished with
water supplied by the fire pump and tank. This option should be used only in a true emergency. Use of
this option could lead to cooling system contamination, clogging, water pump damage, or other
problems. If this option is used, the cooling system should be flushed and refilled with properly
conditioned, clean coolant as soon as possible.
If the coolant is extremely low and the engine is very hot, allow the engine to cool for at least 15 minutes
before adding coolant to avoid thermal shock to the engine block resulting in serious engine damage
or reduced component life.
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