Adding coolant?

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Nov 19, 2010 | 08:41 PM

lectricman

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Mountain Pass

Joined: Feb 2004

Posts: 197

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From: In the swamps of Florida

Adding coolant?

Have a stupid question for ya'll. I'm installing a block heater in my dad's 7.3 IDI tomorrow, so naturally I'll be draining the coolant so I can take one of the freeze plugs out. My question is, I've heard horror stories about refilling the coolant only to find it mixing with the oil in the crankcase. I've been told that the only way to add or fill the coolant on these engines is with the engine running, or it will go right into the crankcase. Is there any truth to this or is it an old wives tale? I don't want to make any mistakes. Thanks.

Nov 19, 2010 | 08:47 PM

johnboggs21

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Joined: Jun 2008

Posts: 2,500

Likes: 2

From: Michigan

Thats the first time ive heard that story. Ive always added mine with the engine OFF and had no problems. I think someones yankin your chain

Nov 19, 2010 | 08:49 PM

lectricman

Thread Starter

Mountain Pass

Joined: Feb 2004

Posts: 197

Likes: 0

From: In the swamps of Florida

I didn't think it sounded right either, but I wanted to be sure.

Nov 19, 2010 | 09:54 PM

wreckinball

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Joined: Apr 2009

Posts: 4,086

Likes: 1

From: Malahat/Cowichan Valley

wow that is the best whopper i have heard about these trucks. hahaha. gotta love interpretation!! lmao!!

Nov 19, 2010 | 10:00 PM

ford390gashog

Fleet Owner

Joined: Jan 2004

Posts: 26,007

Likes: 575

From: Brentwood,CA

Yes be very careful you must only fill these engines with coolant while the engine is running

at 3,000 rpm with a 15 degree leftward slant and the sun at high noon position. It also helps to do a sacred rain dance around the truck it pulls all the bad vibe air bubbles out.