Thought I would give you an update on my particular coach issue. I managed to drive the coach to the service center this morning but not without challenges. When I started the coach, I immediately noticed that the "check engine" and "stop engine" light came on. I proceeded to drive to the service center. After about 3 miles while in route, for the first time, the engine temperature began to increase. I should point out that I am able to monitor my engine and transmission vitals easily because I have installed the Silver Leaf PC software using a Samsung tablet and Bluetooth connection using the data link located under the dash. Before I reached the service center, the engine temp reached as high as 241.
After arriving at the service center, the tech attached his computer to the engine data port located next to the engine. The only fault codes were for low coolant level and overheating. The tech began to add CAT extended coolant to the surge tank. He added 7, yes seven gallons of antifreeze coolant. The tank was still not full but it was lunch time. During the break, I inspected the coach to see if there was a leek. Sure enough, I observed a consistent drip of antifreeze originating from somewhere.
After lunch, a new tech came out to inspect the coach. We discussed the leak I observed and after investigation found a small water hose that was leaking. The hose had been rubbing part of the frame and wore through. In fact, there was two spots with the same wear pattern. The tech removed the worn section of the hose and replaced it with new and then secured the hose from rubbing again and also covered it with a protective "hose sleeve" made of a larger diameter hose surrounding the primary hose. The tech also noted that this had obviously be replace previously but nothing had been done to ensure that it would not rub through again. The tech then proceeded to add another 6 gallons, yes another six gallons, of coolant for a total of 13 gallons. This resolved my problem and I was able to continue our trip. However, I learned several important lessons I want to pass along. First, I was told my multiple techs that the surge tank should be filled at least to the filler tube and preferably until it over flows from the filler neck. Do not relay on the sight glass only. Second, the level in the sight glass is deceiving and the amount of coolant I observed, or thought I observed in the sight glass was probably residual fluid caught on the edge of the glass. Third, I never once received an indication of low coolant by any light on the dash. I still need to understand why and make corrections as needed. I had no antifreeze on my driveway at home and I'm convinced that the leak began after I left home. I'm lucky that it wasn't a bigger problem. I was also told that CAT engines should all use extended life antifreeze or coolant, the red stuff. Hope this helps others.