M931A2 Coolant

[JohnnyBM931A2]

So.. After searching through the forum, I have some coolant related questions. I have received my 1000w Kats block heater, and I want to prep for the install. I would like to change out as much coolant as possible, and I want to try and do it properly. If I don't get it all out, that's ok because I will probably do it again in the Spring. Winter seems to be approaching quickly this year so I need to do what work I can on the truck (the block heater being the most important item on the list.)


1st: The most recommended coolant seems to be Fleetguard from NAPA, because it has all of the correct additives for large diesels, and it is easy to get ahold of. Is that correct? And does anyone have the NAPA number for the specific coolant that I should use? I'm guessing they won't have it in stock (or if they do, they may not have 11 gallons of it.)

2nd: The procedure itself. I'm thinking run the truck until it reaches operating temp, then shut it down, open the cap on the overflow tank, and pull the lower radiator hose to drain the coolant (seems like most people have issues with the radiator petcock being seized.)
Does that sound correct?

3rd: If the coolant looks extremely nasty, should I flush it out with a garden hose into the overflow tank? Or should I flush with straight coolant to avoid getting too much water trapped in the nooks and crannies? I know people say these trucks are pretty sensitive when it comes to coolant.

Thanks in advance for any and all info.. Reading the TM's is ok, but it always helps to hear first hand experience from people who have done it before.

 

[WillWagner]

Any low silicate coolant will be gtg. Stay away from ELC, extended life coolants, the red and orange stuff, Dexcool and the likes, they attack rubber that is in contact with coolant. Fleetguard coolants mix with all other coolants so you won't get that black goo in the system if you don't get all the old coolant out...maybe that is only if elc and regular antifreeze is mixed? Pay attention to what you get, some is concentrate, meaning you mix it to 50/50 that would be CC2820, you only need 6 gallons of this. The pre mix ed stuff, CC2825 is pre mixed at 50/50, you'll need 11 gals of this. Whatever you get, make sure it has sca in it, I think Napa sells Zerex with it pre charged and a 50/50 mix.

If you get it hot first, be careful opening the system, it will burn you! Lower rad hose is acceptable to drain from, it is just messy. Wouldn't hurt to flush with water. Make sure you dispose of the old stuff properly.

 

[tbar123]

I went with TSC's Diesel engine coolant, Yes it is orange, but it has the decavication(I know that word is spelled wrong,sorry) additive, Which I like. I'm only expecting to keep this coolant in until spring because I want to flush the system again. I had MAJOR issues with my coolant system. In the spring I plan on going with the pink stuff from O'reilly's.

 

[JohnnyBM931A2]

Thank you guys for the info.. I appreciate it