If a refrigerated truck gets waterlogged, follow these steps to address the situation:
1. Engine Shutdown in Water
If the truck stalls while driving through water, immediately turn off the ignition and avoid restarting the engine. Move the truck to a safe location and try to position it so the front is higher than the rear. This will help drain water from the exhaust pipe, preventing damage to the catalytic converter and muffler.
2. Water in the Engine
If water has entered the engine, remove the spark plugs and manually cut off the fuel and ignition systems. Then use the motor to rotate the engine and expel the water from inside. Check the oil and other fluids in the vehicle. If you notice any foaming or cloudiness, replace the fluids immediately. Afterward, use compressed air to dry out electrical components in the engine bay, especially fuse boxes, sensor connectors, and areas where water may have pooled. After cleaning, test-drive the vehicle to ensure there are no unusual noises. If there is any abnormal noise, inspect the engine bearings and rotating parts.
3. Water in the Cargo Compartment
If water has entered the cargo area, start by removing any standing water. There are usually several drain plugs located under the chassis; open them to release the water. Since interior materials like floor mats can absorb a lot of water, these should be removed and placed in a well-ventilated area to dry. After reinstalling, use the air conditioner in recirculation mode to help remove moisture from the cabin. In the summer, this is an efficient method for dehumidifying the interior.
4. Chassis and Lubrication
Water exposure can cause the lubricating oil in chassis components to degrade, especially in systems like steering and transmission. After driving through water, it’s important to lubricate these parts. Listen for unusual noises from the chassis during the test drive. If necessary, disassemble and inspect the components.
While these steps can help repair a waterlogged refrigerated truck, it’s best to avoid deep water altogether. Drive slowly through unknown depths, downshift, maintain a moderate throttle, and avoid changing gears while submerged to prevent stalling. If possible, wait until the water has receded to a safe level before crossing to avoid unnecessary damage and expenses.
