D17 Radiator Cap  
       
      Printed From: Unofficial Allis
        Category:  Allis Chalmers
       Forum Name:  Farm Equipment
       Forum Description:  everything about Allis-Chalmers farm equipment
       URL: https://www.allischalmers.com/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=203958
       Printed Date: 03 Nov 2025 at 10:43pm Software Version: Web Wiz Forums 11.10 - http://www.webwizforums.com
      
 
  
      Topic: D17 Radiator Cap
       
      Posted By: Dave (NE)
       Subject: D17 Radiator Cap
       Date Posted: 02 Nov 2024 at 9:12am
       
      
        
          
	
Was using the D17 IV diesel and loader a couple days ago and noticed the temp gauge was acting strange.  Not going up to normal, jumping into the red zone, then settling into the normal area. Then noticed some radiator fluid dripping out and some onto the engine.  Shut things down, looked things over a bit and removed the cap.  The round metal piece at the bottom of the cap was just hanging down.  Thought it should be pressed up tight against the base of the cap.  Does this indicate the cap is bad?  Could that have caused the problems I am having?  Thanks for the help.  Dave
  ------------- Do not argue with an idiot.  He will drag you down to his level and beat you with experience.  Mark Twain.
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  Replies: 
       
      Posted By: DrAllis
       
      Date Posted: 02 Nov 2024 at 4:14pm
       
      
        
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That is a spring loaded flapper that seals up so the cooling system can build 12 psi of pressure. When they go bad like that, no pressure can be built. Your description of the temp gauge is usually an indication of low on coolant and/or a blown head gasket or one that is ready to blow.
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      Posted By: Dave (NE)
       
      Date Posted: 02 Nov 2024 at 7:28pm
       
      
        
          
	
Wow, sounds serious.  I'll make sure the fluid level is not low, first, but I don't think it was.  Should I get a new cap also?  Thanks for the feedback.  Dave
  ------------- Do not argue with an idiot.  He will drag you down to his level and beat you with experience.  Mark Twain.
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      Posted By: DrAllis
       
      Date Posted: 02 Nov 2024 at 9:03pm
       
      
        
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You can if you want but if the head gasket is bad that won;t fix it.
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      Posted By: Dave (NE)
       
      Date Posted: 02 Nov 2024 at 9:15pm
       
      
        
          
	
How do I confirm it is or is not the head gasket?
  ------------- Do not argue with an idiot.  He will drag you down to his level and beat you with experience.  Mark Twain.
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      Posted By: DrAllis
       
      Date Posted: 02 Nov 2024 at 10:39pm
       
      
        
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Start by confirming what I think is going on......check the radiator and I'll bet it's a gallon low on coolant. If it is, refill it and continue to use the tractor, remembering to keep checking the coolant to see if it still goes down. Temp gauges act funny when coolant is LOW.
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