How-tos

Ever been on the phone trying to order parts, and the person asks for your engine serial number? You’re standing there, grease up to your elbows, searching every visible surface of your engine like you’re on a treasure hunt. At FridayParts, we’ve guided thousands of customers through this exact scenario over our 16 years in business. Engine serial numbers aren’t just random digits – they’re the DNA of your diesel engine, telling its complete story from birth to present day. Let’s decode the mystery and show you exactly where to find these crucial numbers and what they mean.

As temperatures rise, it’s a smart move to upgrade the radiator in your equipment’s cooling system. But once you start searching online, the choices—and opinions—can get overwhelming fast. Which radiator core is right for my machine? Should you go with a 2-core or 3-core radiator? Which materials offer the best durability? Don’t worry—this article covers. Whether you’re a machine owner, maintenance tech, or parts buyer, this guide breaks down everything you need to know in plain, practical terms. By the way, we share the latest trends in cooling system components to watch for in 2025.

Don’t let a cryptic Thermo King code disrupt your operations. This comprehensive guide breaks down the essential alarm, fault, APU, and reefer codes you’ll encounter. Learn to distinguish between critical red alerts and non-critical yellow warnings, understand what your equipment is telling you, and turn complex diagnostics into simple, manageable repairs. Master these codes to minimize downtime, protect your cargo, and keep your fleet running efficiently.

The engine serves as the core of any off-road machine, whether it is a tractor, a loader, or an excavator. The engine radiator is the unsung hero that keeps that engine running at its best, especially under the severe demands of off-road operation. It is estimated that a sizable portion, between 40% and 60%, of engine failures are directly related to cooling system problems, which result in expensive downtime and lower productivity.

Summer is more than just high temperatures—it also brings humid weather, especially in coastal areas. These small climate changes can quietly affect your equipment, particularly the engine. If ignored, these effects may grow into bigger problems and even cause your equipment to shut down. Overheating is one of the biggest threats to engines during hot and humid conditions. To avoid this costly issue, keeping the radiator in good condition is essential. Radiator maintenance is more than just advice—it’s a key step in protecting your machine from serious damage.
So in this article, you’ll learn 7 practical tips to maintain your radiator, along with repair suggestions and long-term care strategies. These simple actions can help your equipment handle the summer heat with ease.

Is your heavy equipment overheating or showing signs of trouble? A failing radiator can lead to severe engine damage and costly breakdowns. This definitive guide covers the 9 most common signs of a bad radiator and provides 5 simple inspection methods to help you diagnose the issue.

If you care about the operating efficiency of your equipment, then you will inevitably have to solve problems related to the water pumps in the equipment’s cooling system. As for this, our old customer once encountered such a question: “I am curious why the water pump is broken. The repairman often suggested that I replace the water pump when helping me replace the timing chain. Are they selling me a sales pitch? Or is there really a problem with it?” I think most equipment owners will also be confused about this question. This article explains the real causes of water pump failure, offers practical solutions, and shares how to prevent future damage. Through this article, I believe that this question will get the most authentic answer.

Has your excavator or loader experienced an overheating shutdown recently? This may be a problem with your equipment’s cooling system. Don’t worry, this situation often occurs in the use of heavy equipment.

For heavy equipment operators, a working AC is more than comfort—it’s about staying sharp on the job. When your cab heats up, a bad AC compressor is often the culprit. This guide helps you spot the signs of a failing compressor, from warm air to strange noises, so you can diagnose issues and get your equipment back to optimal cooling.

Ready to tackle DIY lawn mower belt replacement? This comprehensive guide simplifies the process for beginners. Learn essential safety steps, gather the right tools, and follow clear instructions for replacing both deck belts and drive belts. From disconnecting the spark plug to correctly routing the new lawn mower belt, we cover every detail. Get your mower belt fixed quickly and efficiently, saving time and money on repairs. Master this vital maintenance task and keep your lawn mower running smoothly.

Is your lawn mower belt acting up? Don’t let a failing mower belt ruin your yard work. Learn to spot the crucial signs of a bad mower belt before it causes a complete breakdown. This guide covers visible damage like cracks and fraying, unusual noises such as squealing, excessive looseness, and performance issues like difficulty engaging blades or uneven cutting. Discover how to identify a worn, stretched, or broken lawn mower belt to ensure your equipment stays reliable. Prevent costly repairs by knowing when to replace your mower belt and maintain your lawn like a pro.

Seeing your lawn mower smoking can be concerning, but it’s often a fixable issue. The color of the smoke is your first clue: white or bluish-white smoke usually means burning oil from overfilling or leaks, while black smoke points to a rich fuel mixture often caused by a clogged air filter. Less commonly, grey smoke can signal significant engine wear or a blown head gasket. This guide helps you diagnose and fix common smoking problems to get your mower back on track.