Coolant flush
#1
11-10-2016, 10:38 AM
Coolant flush
I'm planning on doing the regular scheduled coolant flush but not sure if it can be done without any special equipment.
One dealer said they don't do many diesels but have a machine to do the refill and quoted ~200$. The other does more diesels but hasn't done a flush in a while and quoted ~500$ and said he does it old school by draining everything out and then water flush followed by refilling the systems.
Which one is right? Can it be done in the driveway? Which is the correct coolant for the refill and are any additives required after filling?
One dealer said they don't do many diesels but have a machine to do the refill and quoted ~200$. The other does more diesels but hasn't done a flush in a while and quoted ~500$ and said he does it old school by draining everything out and then water flush followed by refilling the systems.
Which one is right? Can it be done in the driveway? Which is the correct coolant for the refill and are any additives required after filling?
#2
11-10-2016, 12:15 PM
Post Fiend
I would have the coolant tested to see if it was contaminated or still good. This would then tell you what kind of refill you need to perform. Most on here do not suggest doing a water flush as that can introduce contaminates. If they do flush, it is with ionized or purified water. Remember, the diesel 6.7 does have two separate cooling systems. Check your diesel supplement manual for radiator volumes.
Ford suggests using a Auto Coolant Vacuum Kit Cooling System Vacuum Radiator Kit Refill & Purging Tool to refill the cooling systems as this help prevent bubbles and hot spots. Also the use of a Robinair 75240 Coolant and Battery Refractometer or similar to test coolant level
Ford suggests using a Auto Coolant Vacuum Kit Cooling System Vacuum Radiator Kit Refill & Purging Tool to refill the cooling systems as this help prevent bubbles and hot spots. Also the use of a Robinair 75240 Coolant and Battery Refractometer or similar to test coolant level
#5
11-24-2016, 08:56 AM
Junior User
Join Date: Aug 2015
Location: Fort Worth
Posts: 85
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
I don't know how many miles you have - I think it calls for 110k. I took mine to a Ford dealer who told me 3 times they performed a FLUSH. Then, while on the lift, the tech says they DO NOT perform the flush ... only a drain and refill. You can drain and refill your own, with or without dropping the pan. If you want the fluid flushed (and you are right to do so) make sure the tech's know what he hell they are talking about. I ripped their asses and got my money back for the service -
#6
11-24-2016, 09:23 AM
Post Fiend
Primary Cooling System Drain and Refill procedure from Ford Workshop DVD...
Draining
WARNING: Always allow the engine to cool before opening the cooling system. Do not unscrew the coolant pressure relief cap when the engine is operating or the cooling system is hot. The cooling system is under pressure; steam and hot liquid can come out forcefully when the cap is loosened slightly. Failure to follow these instructions may result in serious personal injury.
NOTICE: Always fill the cooling system with the manufacturer's specified coolant. If a non-specified coolant has been used the cooling system MUST be chemically flushed. Refer to Cooling System Flushing — Without Oil Contamination in this section. Failure to follow these instructions may result in damage to the cooling system.
NOTICE: Recover the coolant in a suitable, clean container. If the coolant is contaminated with a radiator sealant or stop-leak, oil or combustion by-products it must be recycled or disposed of correctly and the system MUST be chemically flushed. If the cooling system is drained to make a repair to a cooling system component where evidence is seen of aluminum erosion or cavitation, the coolant must be recycled or disposed of correctly and the system MUST be flushed out with water to remove all particulate contaminants and MUST be chemically flushed. Refer to Cooling System Flushing — Without Oil Contamination in this section. Failure to follow these instructions may result in damage to the cooling system.
NOTE: During normal vehicle operation, Motorcraft® Orange Antifreeze/Coolant may change color from orange to pink or light red. As long as the engine coolant is clear and uncontaminated, this color change does not indicate the engine coolant has degraded nor does it require the engine coolant to be drained, the system to be flushed, or the engine coolant to be replaced.
NOTE: Less than 80% of coolant capacity can be recovered with the engine in the vehicle. Dirty, rusty or contaminated coolant requires replacement.
With the vehicle in NEUTRAL, position it on a hoist. Refer to Section 100-02 .
Disconnect the battery ground cable. Refer to Section 414-01 .
Remove the pressure relief cap from the degas bottle.
Place a suitable container below the radiator draincock.
Open the radiator draincock and drain the coolant into a suitable clean container.
Close the radiator draincock when finished.
Remove the RH fender splash shield. Refer to Section 501-02 .
Completely cover the starter with waterproof plastic.
NOTE: Use of a long ball-end hex bit socket eases removal of the drain plug.
Remove the drain plug and drain the coolant from the RH side of the engine block.
Install the drain plug when finished and tighten to 60 Nm (44 lb-ft).
Remove the waterproof plastic from the starter.
Release the clamp, disconnect the engine-to-engine oil cooler hose from the engine oil cooler and drain the coolant from the LH side of the cylinder block.
Connect the engine-to-engine oil cooler hose and position the clamp when finished.
Filling and Bleeding with Vacuum Cooling System Filler
NOTICE: Before filling the cooling system, evaluate the cooling system condition. For additional information, refer to Cooling System Condition Evaluation in this section. Failure to follow these instructions can result in damage to the engine.
NOTICE: Vehicle cooling systems are filled with Motorcraft® Orange Antifreeze/Coolant. Always fill the cooling system with Motorcraft® Orange Antifreeze/Coolant. Do not mix coolant types. Mixing coolant types degrades the corrosion protection of Motorcraft® Orange Antifreeze/Coolant. Failure to follow these instructions may damage the engine or cooling system.
NOTICE: Engine coolant provides freeze protection, boil protection, corrosion protection and cooling efficiency to the engine and cooling components. In order to obtain these protections, maintain the engine coolant at the correct concentration and fluid level. Failure to follow these instructions may damage the engine or cooling system.
To maintain the integrity of the coolant and the cooling system:
Do not mix coolant types. Mixing coolants degrades the coolant corrosion protection.
Do not add alcohol, methanol or brine, or any engine coolants mixed with alcohol or methanol antifreeze. These can cause engine damage from overheating or freezing.
Do not mix with recycled coolant. Use of such coolant may harm the engine and cooling system components.
When adding or topping off the engine coolant:
measure the coolant concentration in the vehicle using Battery/Coolant Refractometer ROB75240 or equivalent.
determine the concentration based on the vehicle duty cycle of extreme hot or cold operating conditions.
add/top off or adjust the coolant as follows:
for concentrations measured 48/52 to 50/50 engine coolant to water (equates to a freeze point between -34°C and -37°C [-30°F and -34°F]) use Motorcraft® Orange Antifreeze/Coolant Prediluted to maintain a coolant concentration in this same range.
for all other concentrations, use Motorcraft® Orange Antifreeze/Coolant Concentrated and/or distilled water to get to the desired concentration.
When filling the engine coolant after a flush procedure, use a mixture of Motorcraft® Orange Antifreeze/Coolant Concentrated and distilled water to get to the desired concentration.
NOTE: Filling the cooling system with a vacuum cooling system filler is the preferred method.
Install the RH fender splash shield. Refer to Section 501-02 .
Connect the battery ground cable. Refer to Section 414-01 .
NOTICE: With the engine cold, fill vehicles to within the cold fill range shown on the degas bottle. This fill level allows for coolant expansion. Overfilling the degas bottle may result in damage to the pressure cap, which can cause the engine to overheat.
Install the vacuum cooling system filler and follow the tool manufacturer instructions to fill and bleed the cooling system.
Recommended coolant concentration is 48/52 to 50/50 (freeze protection -34°C to -37°C [-30°F to -34°F]) engine coolant to distilled water.
For extremely cold climates (less than -37°C [-34°F]):
It may be necessary to increase the coolant concentration above 50%.
NEVER increase the coolant concentration above 60%.
Maximum coolant concentration is 60/40 for cold weather areas.
A coolant concentration of 60% provides freeze point protection down to -50°C (-58°F).
Engine coolant concentrations above 60% decrease the overheat protection characteristics of the engine coolant and may damage the engine.
For extremely hot climates:
It is still necessary to maintain the coolant concentration above 40%.
NEVER decrease the coolant concentration below 40%.
Minimum coolant concentration is 40/60 for warm weather areas.
A coolant concentration of 40% provides freeze point protection down to -26°C (-15°F).
Engine coolant concentrations below 40% decrease the freeze and corrosion protection characteristics of the engine coolant and may damage the engine.
Vehicles driven year-round in non-extreme climates should use a 48/52 to 50/50 (freeze protection -34°C to -37°C [-30°F to -34°F]) mixture of engine coolant and distilled water for optimum cooling system and engine protection.
NOTE: Failure to block the radiator off will require more time before the thermostat will open.
Position a piece of cardboard on the driver side half of the radiator.
Fill the degas bottle to the maximum fill line.
Install the degas bottle cap until it starts to ratchet. Back the degas bottle cap off one-half turn.
Run the engine at 2,000 RPM for 2 minutes.
Bring the engine to an idle.
Determine if the thermostat has opened by feeling the temperature of the upper radiator hose at the radiator. If the hose is cool then the thermostat has not opened. If the hose is warm or hot then the thermostat has opened.
If the coolant level has dropped below the minimum fill line then refill the degas bottle to the maximum fill line.
Install the degas bottle cap until it starts to ratchet. Back the degas bottle cap off one-half turn.
Repeat Steps 3 through 5 until the thermostat opens.
The coolant level will rise before the thermostat opens due to thermal expansion. The coolant level will drop after the thermostat opens due to air exiting the system.
Repeat Steps 3 and 5 until the coolant level stabilizes.
Stop the engine and remove the cardboard from the radiator.
Restart and idle the engine for 5 minutes to stabilize the coolant temperature.
Fill the degas bottle to 20 mm (0.787 in) above the maximum fill line.
Install the degas bottle cap.
Verify that the cardboard has been removed from the radiator.
Filling and Bleeding without a Vacuum Cooling System Filler
NOTICE: Before filling the cooling system, evaluate the cooling system condition. For additional information, refer to Cooling System Condition Evaluation in this section. Failure to follow these instructions can result in damage to the engine.
NOTICE: Vehicle cooling systems are filled with Motorcraft® Orange Antifreeze/Coolant. Always fill the cooling system with Motorcraft® Orange Antifreeze/Coolant. Do not mix coolant types. Mixing coolant types degrades the corrosion protection of Motorcraft® Orange Antifreeze/Coolant. Failure to follow these instructions may damage the engine or cooling system.
NOTICE: Engine coolant provides freeze protection, boil protection, corrosion protection and cooling efficiency to the engine and cooling components. In order to obtain these protections, maintain the engine coolant at the correct concentration and fluid level. Failure to follow these instructions may damage the engine or cooling system.
To maintain the integrity of the coolant and the cooling system:
Do not mix coolant types. Mixing coolants degrades the coolant corrosion protection.
Do not add alcohol, methanol or brine, or any engine coolants mixed with alcohol or methanol antifreeze. These can cause engine damage from overheating or freezing.
Do not mix with recycled coolant. Use of such coolant may harm the engine and cooling system components.
When adding or topping off the engine coolant:
measure the coolant concentration in the vehicle using Battery/Coolant Refractometer ROB75240 or equivalent.
determine the concentrating based on the vehicle duty cycle of extreme hot or cold operating conditions.
add/top off or adjust the coolant as follows:
for concentrations measured 48/52 to 50/50 engine coolant to water (equates to a freeze point between -34°C and -37°C [-30F and -34°F]) use Motorcraft® Orange Antifreeze/Coolant Prediluted to maintain a coolant concentration in this same range.
for all other concentrations, use Motorcraft® Orange Antifreeze/Coolant Concentrated and/or distilled water to get to the desired concentration.
When filling the engine coolant after a flush procedure, use a mixture of Motorcraft® Orange Antifreeze/Coolant Concentrated and distilled water to get to the desired concentration.
NOTE: Filling the cooling system with a vacuum cooling system filler is the preferred method. Carry out the following procedure only if a vacuum cooling system filler is not available.
Install the RH fender splash shield. Refer to Section 501-02 .
Connect the battery ground cable. Refer to Section 414-01 .
NOTE: Failure to block the radiator off will require more time before the thermostat will open.
Position a piece of cardboard on the driver side half of the radiator.
NOTE: The degas bottle cap must be loose so that the cooling system does not get pressurized.
Fill the degas bottle to the maximum fill line.
Recommended coolant concentration is 48/52 to 50/50 (freeze protection -34°C to -37°C [-30°F to -34°F]) engine coolant to distilled water.
For extremely cold climates (less than -37°C [-34°F]):
It may be necessary to increase the coolant concentration above 50%.
NEVER increase the coolant concentration above 60%.
Maximum coolant concentration is 60/40 for cold weather areas.
A coolant concentration of 60% provides freeze point protection down to -50°C (-58°F).
Engine coolant concentrations above 60% decrease the overheat protection characteristics of the engine coolant and may damage the engine.
For extremely hot climates:
It is still necessary to maintain the coolant concentration above 40%.
NEVER decrease the coolant concentration below 40%.
Minimum coolant concentration is 40/60 for warm weather areas.
A coolant concentration of 40% provides freeze point protection down to -26°C (-15°F).
Engine coolant concentrations below 40% decrease the freeze and corrosion protection characteristics of the engine coolant and may damage the engine.
Vehicles driven year-round in non-extreme climates should use a 48/52 to 50/50 (freeze protection -34°C to -37°C [-30°F to -34°F]) mixture of engine coolant and distilled water for optimum cooling system and engine protection.
Install the degas bottle cap until it starts to ratchet. Back the degas bottle cap off one-half turn.
Start and idle the engine until the coolant level stabilizes.
Refill the degas bottle to the maximum fill line.
Install the degas bottle cap until it starts to ratchet. Back the degas bottle cap off one-half turn.
Run the engine at 2,000 RPM for 2 minutes.
Bring the engine to an idle.
Determine if the thermostat has opened by feeling the temperature of the upper radiator hose at the radiator. If the hose is cool then the thermostat has not opened. If the hose is warm or hot then the thermostat has opened.
If the coolant level has dropped below the minimum fill line then refill the degas bottle to the maximum fill line.
Install the degas bottle cap until it starts to ratchet. Back the degas bottle cap off one-half turn.
Repeat Steps 5 through 7 until the thermostat opens.
The coolant level will rise before the thermostat opens due to thermal expansion. The coolant level will drop after the thermostat opens due to air exiting the system.
Repeat Steps 5 and 7 until the coolant level stabilizes.
Stop the engine and remove the cardboard from the radiator.
Restart and idle the engine for 5 minutes to stabilize the coolant temperature.
Fill the degas bottle to 20 mm (0.787 in) above the maximum fill line.
Install the degas bottle cap.
Verify that the cardboard has been removed from the radiator.
Draining
WARNING: Always allow the engine to cool before opening the cooling system. Do not unscrew the coolant pressure relief cap when the engine is operating or the cooling system is hot. The cooling system is under pressure; steam and hot liquid can come out forcefully when the cap is loosened slightly. Failure to follow these instructions may result in serious personal injury.
NOTICE: Always fill the cooling system with the manufacturer's specified coolant. If a non-specified coolant has been used the cooling system MUST be chemically flushed. Refer to Cooling System Flushing — Without Oil Contamination in this section. Failure to follow these instructions may result in damage to the cooling system.
NOTICE: Recover the coolant in a suitable, clean container. If the coolant is contaminated with a radiator sealant or stop-leak, oil or combustion by-products it must be recycled or disposed of correctly and the system MUST be chemically flushed. If the cooling system is drained to make a repair to a cooling system component where evidence is seen of aluminum erosion or cavitation, the coolant must be recycled or disposed of correctly and the system MUST be flushed out with water to remove all particulate contaminants and MUST be chemically flushed. Refer to Cooling System Flushing — Without Oil Contamination in this section. Failure to follow these instructions may result in damage to the cooling system.
NOTE: During normal vehicle operation, Motorcraft® Orange Antifreeze/Coolant may change color from orange to pink or light red. As long as the engine coolant is clear and uncontaminated, this color change does not indicate the engine coolant has degraded nor does it require the engine coolant to be drained, the system to be flushed, or the engine coolant to be replaced.
NOTE: Less than 80% of coolant capacity can be recovered with the engine in the vehicle. Dirty, rusty or contaminated coolant requires replacement.
With the vehicle in NEUTRAL, position it on a hoist. Refer to Section 100-02 .
Disconnect the battery ground cable. Refer to Section 414-01 .
Remove the pressure relief cap from the degas bottle.
Place a suitable container below the radiator draincock.
Open the radiator draincock and drain the coolant into a suitable clean container.
Close the radiator draincock when finished.
Remove the RH fender splash shield. Refer to Section 501-02 .
Completely cover the starter with waterproof plastic.
NOTE: Use of a long ball-end hex bit socket eases removal of the drain plug.
Remove the drain plug and drain the coolant from the RH side of the engine block.
Install the drain plug when finished and tighten to 60 Nm (44 lb-ft).
Remove the waterproof plastic from the starter.
Release the clamp, disconnect the engine-to-engine oil cooler hose from the engine oil cooler and drain the coolant from the LH side of the cylinder block.
Connect the engine-to-engine oil cooler hose and position the clamp when finished.
Filling and Bleeding with Vacuum Cooling System Filler
NOTICE: Before filling the cooling system, evaluate the cooling system condition. For additional information, refer to Cooling System Condition Evaluation in this section. Failure to follow these instructions can result in damage to the engine.
NOTICE: Vehicle cooling systems are filled with Motorcraft® Orange Antifreeze/Coolant. Always fill the cooling system with Motorcraft® Orange Antifreeze/Coolant. Do not mix coolant types. Mixing coolant types degrades the corrosion protection of Motorcraft® Orange Antifreeze/Coolant. Failure to follow these instructions may damage the engine or cooling system.
NOTICE: Engine coolant provides freeze protection, boil protection, corrosion protection and cooling efficiency to the engine and cooling components. In order to obtain these protections, maintain the engine coolant at the correct concentration and fluid level. Failure to follow these instructions may damage the engine or cooling system.
To maintain the integrity of the coolant and the cooling system:
Do not mix coolant types. Mixing coolants degrades the coolant corrosion protection.
Do not add alcohol, methanol or brine, or any engine coolants mixed with alcohol or methanol antifreeze. These can cause engine damage from overheating or freezing.
Do not mix with recycled coolant. Use of such coolant may harm the engine and cooling system components.
When adding or topping off the engine coolant:
measure the coolant concentration in the vehicle using Battery/Coolant Refractometer ROB75240 or equivalent.
determine the concentration based on the vehicle duty cycle of extreme hot or cold operating conditions.
add/top off or adjust the coolant as follows:
for concentrations measured 48/52 to 50/50 engine coolant to water (equates to a freeze point between -34°C and -37°C [-30°F and -34°F]) use Motorcraft® Orange Antifreeze/Coolant Prediluted to maintain a coolant concentration in this same range.
for all other concentrations, use Motorcraft® Orange Antifreeze/Coolant Concentrated and/or distilled water to get to the desired concentration.
When filling the engine coolant after a flush procedure, use a mixture of Motorcraft® Orange Antifreeze/Coolant Concentrated and distilled water to get to the desired concentration.
NOTE: Filling the cooling system with a vacuum cooling system filler is the preferred method.
Install the RH fender splash shield. Refer to Section 501-02 .
Connect the battery ground cable. Refer to Section 414-01 .
NOTICE: With the engine cold, fill vehicles to within the cold fill range shown on the degas bottle. This fill level allows for coolant expansion. Overfilling the degas bottle may result in damage to the pressure cap, which can cause the engine to overheat.
Install the vacuum cooling system filler and follow the tool manufacturer instructions to fill and bleed the cooling system.
Recommended coolant concentration is 48/52 to 50/50 (freeze protection -34°C to -37°C [-30°F to -34°F]) engine coolant to distilled water.
For extremely cold climates (less than -37°C [-34°F]):
It may be necessary to increase the coolant concentration above 50%.
NEVER increase the coolant concentration above 60%.
Maximum coolant concentration is 60/40 for cold weather areas.
A coolant concentration of 60% provides freeze point protection down to -50°C (-58°F).
Engine coolant concentrations above 60% decrease the overheat protection characteristics of the engine coolant and may damage the engine.
For extremely hot climates:
It is still necessary to maintain the coolant concentration above 40%.
NEVER decrease the coolant concentration below 40%.
Minimum coolant concentration is 40/60 for warm weather areas.
A coolant concentration of 40% provides freeze point protection down to -26°C (-15°F).
Engine coolant concentrations below 40% decrease the freeze and corrosion protection characteristics of the engine coolant and may damage the engine.
Vehicles driven year-round in non-extreme climates should use a 48/52 to 50/50 (freeze protection -34°C to -37°C [-30°F to -34°F]) mixture of engine coolant and distilled water for optimum cooling system and engine protection.
NOTE: Failure to block the radiator off will require more time before the thermostat will open.
Position a piece of cardboard on the driver side half of the radiator.
Fill the degas bottle to the maximum fill line.
Install the degas bottle cap until it starts to ratchet. Back the degas bottle cap off one-half turn.
Run the engine at 2,000 RPM for 2 minutes.
Bring the engine to an idle.
Determine if the thermostat has opened by feeling the temperature of the upper radiator hose at the radiator. If the hose is cool then the thermostat has not opened. If the hose is warm or hot then the thermostat has opened.
If the coolant level has dropped below the minimum fill line then refill the degas bottle to the maximum fill line.
Install the degas bottle cap until it starts to ratchet. Back the degas bottle cap off one-half turn.
Repeat Steps 3 through 5 until the thermostat opens.
The coolant level will rise before the thermostat opens due to thermal expansion. The coolant level will drop after the thermostat opens due to air exiting the system.
Repeat Steps 3 and 5 until the coolant level stabilizes.
Stop the engine and remove the cardboard from the radiator.
Restart and idle the engine for 5 minutes to stabilize the coolant temperature.
Fill the degas bottle to 20 mm (0.787 in) above the maximum fill line.
Install the degas bottle cap.
Verify that the cardboard has been removed from the radiator.
Filling and Bleeding without a Vacuum Cooling System Filler
NOTICE: Before filling the cooling system, evaluate the cooling system condition. For additional information, refer to Cooling System Condition Evaluation in this section. Failure to follow these instructions can result in damage to the engine.
NOTICE: Vehicle cooling systems are filled with Motorcraft® Orange Antifreeze/Coolant. Always fill the cooling system with Motorcraft® Orange Antifreeze/Coolant. Do not mix coolant types. Mixing coolant types degrades the corrosion protection of Motorcraft® Orange Antifreeze/Coolant. Failure to follow these instructions may damage the engine or cooling system.
NOTICE: Engine coolant provides freeze protection, boil protection, corrosion protection and cooling efficiency to the engine and cooling components. In order to obtain these protections, maintain the engine coolant at the correct concentration and fluid level. Failure to follow these instructions may damage the engine or cooling system.
To maintain the integrity of the coolant and the cooling system:
Do not mix coolant types. Mixing coolants degrades the coolant corrosion protection.
Do not add alcohol, methanol or brine, or any engine coolants mixed with alcohol or methanol antifreeze. These can cause engine damage from overheating or freezing.
Do not mix with recycled coolant. Use of such coolant may harm the engine and cooling system components.
When adding or topping off the engine coolant:
measure the coolant concentration in the vehicle using Battery/Coolant Refractometer ROB75240 or equivalent.
determine the concentrating based on the vehicle duty cycle of extreme hot or cold operating conditions.
add/top off or adjust the coolant as follows:
for concentrations measured 48/52 to 50/50 engine coolant to water (equates to a freeze point between -34°C and -37°C [-30F and -34°F]) use Motorcraft® Orange Antifreeze/Coolant Prediluted to maintain a coolant concentration in this same range.
for all other concentrations, use Motorcraft® Orange Antifreeze/Coolant Concentrated and/or distilled water to get to the desired concentration.
When filling the engine coolant after a flush procedure, use a mixture of Motorcraft® Orange Antifreeze/Coolant Concentrated and distilled water to get to the desired concentration.
NOTE: Filling the cooling system with a vacuum cooling system filler is the preferred method. Carry out the following procedure only if a vacuum cooling system filler is not available.
Install the RH fender splash shield. Refer to Section 501-02 .
Connect the battery ground cable. Refer to Section 414-01 .
NOTE: Failure to block the radiator off will require more time before the thermostat will open.
Position a piece of cardboard on the driver side half of the radiator.
NOTE: The degas bottle cap must be loose so that the cooling system does not get pressurized.
Fill the degas bottle to the maximum fill line.
Recommended coolant concentration is 48/52 to 50/50 (freeze protection -34°C to -37°C [-30°F to -34°F]) engine coolant to distilled water.
For extremely cold climates (less than -37°C [-34°F]):
It may be necessary to increase the coolant concentration above 50%.
NEVER increase the coolant concentration above 60%.
Maximum coolant concentration is 60/40 for cold weather areas.
A coolant concentration of 60% provides freeze point protection down to -50°C (-58°F).
Engine coolant concentrations above 60% decrease the overheat protection characteristics of the engine coolant and may damage the engine.
For extremely hot climates:
It is still necessary to maintain the coolant concentration above 40%.
NEVER decrease the coolant concentration below 40%.
Minimum coolant concentration is 40/60 for warm weather areas.
A coolant concentration of 40% provides freeze point protection down to -26°C (-15°F).
Engine coolant concentrations below 40% decrease the freeze and corrosion protection characteristics of the engine coolant and may damage the engine.
Vehicles driven year-round in non-extreme climates should use a 48/52 to 50/50 (freeze protection -34°C to -37°C [-30°F to -34°F]) mixture of engine coolant and distilled water for optimum cooling system and engine protection.
Install the degas bottle cap until it starts to ratchet. Back the degas bottle cap off one-half turn.
Start and idle the engine until the coolant level stabilizes.
Refill the degas bottle to the maximum fill line.
Install the degas bottle cap until it starts to ratchet. Back the degas bottle cap off one-half turn.
Run the engine at 2,000 RPM for 2 minutes.
Bring the engine to an idle.
Determine if the thermostat has opened by feeling the temperature of the upper radiator hose at the radiator. If the hose is cool then the thermostat has not opened. If the hose is warm or hot then the thermostat has opened.
If the coolant level has dropped below the minimum fill line then refill the degas bottle to the maximum fill line.
Install the degas bottle cap until it starts to ratchet. Back the degas bottle cap off one-half turn.
Repeat Steps 5 through 7 until the thermostat opens.
The coolant level will rise before the thermostat opens due to thermal expansion. The coolant level will drop after the thermostat opens due to air exiting the system.
Repeat Steps 5 and 7 until the coolant level stabilizes.
Stop the engine and remove the cardboard from the radiator.
Restart and idle the engine for 5 minutes to stabilize the coolant temperature.
Fill the degas bottle to 20 mm (0.787 in) above the maximum fill line.
Install the degas bottle cap.
Verify that the cardboard has been removed from the radiator.
#7
11-24-2016, 09:35 AM
Post Fiend
Secondary Cooling System Drain and Refill procedure from Ford Workshop DVD...
Draining
WARNING: Always allow the engine to cool before opening the cooling system. Do not unscrew the coolant pressure relief cap when the engine is operating or the cooling system is hot. The cooling system is under pressure; steam and hot liquid can come out forcefully when the cap is loosened slightly. Failure to follow these instructions may result in serious personal injury.
NOTICE: Always fill the cooling system with the manufacturer's specified coolant. If a non-specified coolant has been used the cooling system must be chemically flushed. Refer to Cooling System Flushing — Without Fuel or Transmission Fluid Contamination in this section. Failure to follow these instructions may damage the engine or cooling system.
NOTICE: Recover the coolant in a suitable, clean container for reuse. If the coolant is contaminated, dispose of it properly and fill the system with new coolant. Flush the cooling system. Refer to Cooling System Flushing — Without Fuel or Transmission Fluid Contamination or Cooling System Flushing — With Fuel or Transmission Fluid Contamination in this section. Failure to follow these instructions may damage to the cooling system.
NOTE: During normal vehicle operation, Motorcraft Orange Antifreeze/Coolant may change color from orange to pink or light red. As long as the engine coolant is clear and uncontaminated, this color change does not indicate the engine coolant has degraded nor does it require the engine coolant to be drained, the system to be flushed, or the engine coolant to be replaced.
With the vehicle in NEUTRAL, position it on a hoist. For additional information, refer to Section 100-02 .
Place a suitable container below the radiator draincock.
Remove the pressure relief cap from the degas bottle.
Open the radiator draincock and drain the coolant into a suitable clean container.
Close the radiator draincock when finished.
If necessary, disconnect the transmission fluid cooler inlet hose from the transmission fluid cooler and the fuel cooler outlet hose from the fuel cooler to completely drain the system. Drain the coolant into a suitable clean container. Reconnect the hoses when finished.
Filling and Bleeding with Vacuum Cooling System Filler
NOTICE: Before filling the cooling system, evaluate the cooling system condition. For additional information, refer to Cooling System Condition Evaluation in this section. Failure to follow these instructions can damage the cooling system.
NOTICE: Vehicle cooling systems are filled with Motorcraft® Orange Antifreeze/Coolant. Do not mix coolant types. Mixing coolant types degrades the corrosion protection of Motorcraft® Orange Antifreeze/Coolant. Failure to follow these instructions may damage the cooling system.
NOTICE: Coolant provides freeze protection, boil protection, corrosion protection and cooling efficiency to the cooling system components. In order to obtain these protections, maintain the coolant at the correct concentration and fluid level. Failure to follow these instructions may damage the cooling system.
To maintain the integrity of the coolant and the cooling system:
Do not mix coolant types. Mixing coolants degrades the coolant corrosion protection.
Do not add alcohol, methanol or brine, or any coolants mixed with alcohol or methanol antifreeze. These can cause cooling system damage from overheating or freezing.
Do not mix with recycled coolant. Use of such coolant may harm the cooling system components.
When adding or topping off the engine coolant:
measure the coolant concentration in the vehicle using Coolant/Battery Refractometer ROB75240 or equivalent.
Determine the concentration desired based on duty cycle of extreme hot or cold operating conditions.
add/top off coolant as follows:
for concentrations measured 48/52 to 50/50 engine coolant to water (equates to a freeze point between -34°C and -37°C [-30°F and -34°F]), use Motorcraft® Orange Antifreeze/Coolant Prediluted to maintain a coolant concentration in this same range.
For all other concentrations, use Motorcraft® Orange Antifreeze/Coolant Concentrated and/or distilled water to get to the desired concentration.
When refilling the engine coolant after a flush procedure, use a mixture of Motorcraft® Orange Antifreeze/Coolant Concentrated and distilled water to get to the desired concentration.
NOTE: Filling the cooling system with a vacuum cooling system filler is the preferred method.
NOTICE: With the engine cold, fill vehicles to within the cold fill range shown on the degas bottle. This fill level allows for coolant expansion. Overfilling the degas bottle may result in damage to the pressure cap, which can cause the cooling system to overheat.
Install the vacuum cooling system filler and follow the tool manufacturer instructions to fill and bleed the cooling system.
Recommended coolant concentration is 48/52 to 50/50 (freeze protection -34°C to -37°C [-30°F to -34°F]) engine coolant to distilled water.
For extremely cold climates (less than -37°C [-34°F]):
It may be necessary to increase the coolant concentration above 50%.
NEVER increase the coolant concentration above 60%.
Maximum coolant concentration is 60/40 for cold weather areas.
A coolant concentration of 60% provides freeze point protection down to -50°C (-58°F).
Engine coolant concentrations above 60% decrease the overheat protection characteristics of the engine coolant and may damage the engine.
For extremely hot climates:
It is still necessary to maintain the coolant concentration above 40%.
NEVER decrease the coolant concentration below 40%.
Minimum coolant concentration is 40/60 for warm weather areas.
A coolant concentration of 40% provides freeze point protection down to -26°C (-15F).
Engine coolant concentrations below 40% decrease the freeze and corrosion protection characteristics of the engine coolant and may damage the engine.
Vehicles driven year-round in non-extreme climates should use a 48/52 to 50/50 (freeze protection -34°C to -37°C [-30°F to -34°F]) mixture of engine coolant and distilled water for optimum cooling system and engine protection.
Filling and Bleeding without a Vacuum Cooling System Filler
NOTICE: Before filling the cooling system, evaluate the cooling system condition. For additional information, refer to Cooling System Condition Evaluation in this section. Failure to follow these instructions can damage the cooling system.
NOTICE: Vehicle cooling systems are filled with Motorcraft® Orange Antifreeze/Coolant. Do not mix coolant types. Mixing coolant types degrades the corrosion protection of Motorcraft® Orange Antifreeze/Coolant. Failure to follow these instructions may damage the cooling system.
NOTICE: Coolant provides freeze protection, boil protection, corrosion protection and cooling efficiency to the cooling system components. In order to obtain these protections, maintain the coolant at the correct concentration and fluid level. Failure to follow these instructions may damage the cooling system.
To maintain the integrity of the coolant and the cooling system:
Do not mix coolant types. Mixing coolants degrades the coolant corrosion protection.
Do not add alcohol, methanol or brine, or any coolants mixed with alcohol or methanol antifreeze. These can cause cooling system damage from overheating or freezing.
Do not mix with recycled coolant. Use of such coolant may harm the cooling system components.
When adding or topping off the engine coolant:
measure the coolant concentration in the vehicle using Coolant/Battery Refractometer ROB75240 or equivalent.
Determine the concentration desired based on duty cycle of extreme hot or cold operating conditions.
add/top off coolant as follows:
for concentrations measured 48/52 to 50/50 engine coolant to water (equates to a freeze point between -34°C and -37°C [-30°F and -34°F]), use Motorcraft® Orange Antifreeze/Coolant Prediluted to maintain a coolant concentration in this same range.
For all other concentrations, use Motorcraft® Orange Antifreeze/Coolant Concentrated and/or distilled water to get to the desired concentration.
When refilling the engine coolant after a flush procedure, use a mixture of Motorcraft® Orange Antifreeze/Coolant
Concentrated and distilled water to get to the desired concentration.
NOTE: Filling the cooling system with a vacuum cooling system filler is the preferred method. Carry out the following procedure only if a vacuum cooling system filler is not available.
NOTE: Failure to block the radiator will require more time before the thermostat opens.
Position a piece of cardboard on the driver side half of the radiator.
NOTE: The degas bottle cap must be loose so that the cooling system does not get pressurized.
Fill the degas bottle to the maximum fill line.
Recommended coolant concentration is 48/52 to 50/50 (freeze protection -34°C to -37°C [-30°F to -34°F]) engine coolant to distilled water.
For extremely cold climates (less than -37°C [-34°F]):
It may be necessary to increase the coolant concentration above 50%.
NEVER increase the coolant concentration above 60%.
Maximum coolant concentration is 60/40 for cold weather areas.
A coolant concentration of 60% provides freeze point protection down to -50°C (-58°F).
Engine coolant concentrations above 60% decrease the overheat protection characteristics of the engine coolant and may damage the engine.
For extremely hot climates:
It is still necessary to maintain the coolant concentration above 40%.
NEVER decrease the coolant concentration below 40%.
Minimum coolant concentration is 40/60 for warm weather areas.
A coolant concentration of 40% provides freeze point protection down to -26°C (-15°F).
Engine coolant concentrations below 40% decrease the freeze and corrosion protection characteristics of the engine coolant and may damage the engine.
Vehicles driven year-round in non-extreme climates should use a 48/52 to 50/50 (freeze protection -34°C to -37°C [-30°F to -34°F]) mixture of engine coolant and distilled water for optimum cooling system and engine protection.
Install the degas bottle cap to the first stop.
Start and idle the engine until the coolant level stabilizes.
Fill the degas bottle to the maximum fill line.
Install the degas bottle cap to the first stop.
Run the engine at 2,000 rpm for 2 minutes.
Bring the engine to an idle.
Determine if the low temperature thermostat has opened by feeling the lower part of the LH side of the secondary radiator, under the high temperature thermostat housing. If the radiator is cool then the thermostat has not opened. If the radiator is warm then the low temperature thermostat has opened and coolant is flowing through the entire system.
If the coolant level has dropped below the minimum fill line fill the degas bottle to the maximum fill line.
Install the degas bottle cap to the first stop.
Repeat Steps 5 through 7 until the thermostat opens.
The coolant level will rise before the thermostat opens due to thermal expansion. The coolant level will drop after the thermostat opens due to air exiting the system.
Repeat Steps 5 and 7 until the coolant level stabilizes.
Stop the engine and remove the cardboard from the radiator.
Restart and idle the engine for 5 minutes to stabilize the coolant temperature.
Fill the degas bottle to 5 mm (0.196 in) above the maximum fill line.
Install the degas bottle cap.
Verify that the cardboard has been removed from the radiator.
Draining
WARNING: Always allow the engine to cool before opening the cooling system. Do not unscrew the coolant pressure relief cap when the engine is operating or the cooling system is hot. The cooling system is under pressure; steam and hot liquid can come out forcefully when the cap is loosened slightly. Failure to follow these instructions may result in serious personal injury.
NOTICE: Always fill the cooling system with the manufacturer's specified coolant. If a non-specified coolant has been used the cooling system must be chemically flushed. Refer to Cooling System Flushing — Without Fuel or Transmission Fluid Contamination in this section. Failure to follow these instructions may damage the engine or cooling system.
NOTICE: Recover the coolant in a suitable, clean container for reuse. If the coolant is contaminated, dispose of it properly and fill the system with new coolant. Flush the cooling system. Refer to Cooling System Flushing — Without Fuel or Transmission Fluid Contamination or Cooling System Flushing — With Fuel or Transmission Fluid Contamination in this section. Failure to follow these instructions may damage to the cooling system.
NOTE: During normal vehicle operation, Motorcraft Orange Antifreeze/Coolant may change color from orange to pink or light red. As long as the engine coolant is clear and uncontaminated, this color change does not indicate the engine coolant has degraded nor does it require the engine coolant to be drained, the system to be flushed, or the engine coolant to be replaced.
With the vehicle in NEUTRAL, position it on a hoist. For additional information, refer to Section 100-02 .
Place a suitable container below the radiator draincock.
Remove the pressure relief cap from the degas bottle.
Open the radiator draincock and drain the coolant into a suitable clean container.
Close the radiator draincock when finished.
If necessary, disconnect the transmission fluid cooler inlet hose from the transmission fluid cooler and the fuel cooler outlet hose from the fuel cooler to completely drain the system. Drain the coolant into a suitable clean container. Reconnect the hoses when finished.
Filling and Bleeding with Vacuum Cooling System Filler
NOTICE: Before filling the cooling system, evaluate the cooling system condition. For additional information, refer to Cooling System Condition Evaluation in this section. Failure to follow these instructions can damage the cooling system.
NOTICE: Vehicle cooling systems are filled with Motorcraft® Orange Antifreeze/Coolant. Do not mix coolant types. Mixing coolant types degrades the corrosion protection of Motorcraft® Orange Antifreeze/Coolant. Failure to follow these instructions may damage the cooling system.
NOTICE: Coolant provides freeze protection, boil protection, corrosion protection and cooling efficiency to the cooling system components. In order to obtain these protections, maintain the coolant at the correct concentration and fluid level. Failure to follow these instructions may damage the cooling system.
To maintain the integrity of the coolant and the cooling system:
Do not mix coolant types. Mixing coolants degrades the coolant corrosion protection.
Do not add alcohol, methanol or brine, or any coolants mixed with alcohol or methanol antifreeze. These can cause cooling system damage from overheating or freezing.
Do not mix with recycled coolant. Use of such coolant may harm the cooling system components.
When adding or topping off the engine coolant:
measure the coolant concentration in the vehicle using Coolant/Battery Refractometer ROB75240 or equivalent.
Determine the concentration desired based on duty cycle of extreme hot or cold operating conditions.
add/top off coolant as follows:
for concentrations measured 48/52 to 50/50 engine coolant to water (equates to a freeze point between -34°C and -37°C [-30°F and -34°F]), use Motorcraft® Orange Antifreeze/Coolant Prediluted to maintain a coolant concentration in this same range.
For all other concentrations, use Motorcraft® Orange Antifreeze/Coolant Concentrated and/or distilled water to get to the desired concentration.
When refilling the engine coolant after a flush procedure, use a mixture of Motorcraft® Orange Antifreeze/Coolant Concentrated and distilled water to get to the desired concentration.
NOTE: Filling the cooling system with a vacuum cooling system filler is the preferred method.
NOTICE: With the engine cold, fill vehicles to within the cold fill range shown on the degas bottle. This fill level allows for coolant expansion. Overfilling the degas bottle may result in damage to the pressure cap, which can cause the cooling system to overheat.
Install the vacuum cooling system filler and follow the tool manufacturer instructions to fill and bleed the cooling system.
Recommended coolant concentration is 48/52 to 50/50 (freeze protection -34°C to -37°C [-30°F to -34°F]) engine coolant to distilled water.
For extremely cold climates (less than -37°C [-34°F]):
It may be necessary to increase the coolant concentration above 50%.
NEVER increase the coolant concentration above 60%.
Maximum coolant concentration is 60/40 for cold weather areas.
A coolant concentration of 60% provides freeze point protection down to -50°C (-58°F).
Engine coolant concentrations above 60% decrease the overheat protection characteristics of the engine coolant and may damage the engine.
For extremely hot climates:
It is still necessary to maintain the coolant concentration above 40%.
NEVER decrease the coolant concentration below 40%.
Minimum coolant concentration is 40/60 for warm weather areas.
A coolant concentration of 40% provides freeze point protection down to -26°C (-15F).
Engine coolant concentrations below 40% decrease the freeze and corrosion protection characteristics of the engine coolant and may damage the engine.
Vehicles driven year-round in non-extreme climates should use a 48/52 to 50/50 (freeze protection -34°C to -37°C [-30°F to -34°F]) mixture of engine coolant and distilled water for optimum cooling system and engine protection.
Filling and Bleeding without a Vacuum Cooling System Filler
NOTICE: Before filling the cooling system, evaluate the cooling system condition. For additional information, refer to Cooling System Condition Evaluation in this section. Failure to follow these instructions can damage the cooling system.
NOTICE: Vehicle cooling systems are filled with Motorcraft® Orange Antifreeze/Coolant. Do not mix coolant types. Mixing coolant types degrades the corrosion protection of Motorcraft® Orange Antifreeze/Coolant. Failure to follow these instructions may damage the cooling system.
NOTICE: Coolant provides freeze protection, boil protection, corrosion protection and cooling efficiency to the cooling system components. In order to obtain these protections, maintain the coolant at the correct concentration and fluid level. Failure to follow these instructions may damage the cooling system.
To maintain the integrity of the coolant and the cooling system:
Do not mix coolant types. Mixing coolants degrades the coolant corrosion protection.
Do not add alcohol, methanol or brine, or any coolants mixed with alcohol or methanol antifreeze. These can cause cooling system damage from overheating or freezing.
Do not mix with recycled coolant. Use of such coolant may harm the cooling system components.
When adding or topping off the engine coolant:
measure the coolant concentration in the vehicle using Coolant/Battery Refractometer ROB75240 or equivalent.
Determine the concentration desired based on duty cycle of extreme hot or cold operating conditions.
add/top off coolant as follows:
for concentrations measured 48/52 to 50/50 engine coolant to water (equates to a freeze point between -34°C and -37°C [-30°F and -34°F]), use Motorcraft® Orange Antifreeze/Coolant Prediluted to maintain a coolant concentration in this same range.
For all other concentrations, use Motorcraft® Orange Antifreeze/Coolant Concentrated and/or distilled water to get to the desired concentration.
When refilling the engine coolant after a flush procedure, use a mixture of Motorcraft® Orange Antifreeze/Coolant
Concentrated and distilled water to get to the desired concentration.
NOTE: Filling the cooling system with a vacuum cooling system filler is the preferred method. Carry out the following procedure only if a vacuum cooling system filler is not available.
NOTE: Failure to block the radiator will require more time before the thermostat opens.
Position a piece of cardboard on the driver side half of the radiator.
NOTE: The degas bottle cap must be loose so that the cooling system does not get pressurized.
Fill the degas bottle to the maximum fill line.
Recommended coolant concentration is 48/52 to 50/50 (freeze protection -34°C to -37°C [-30°F to -34°F]) engine coolant to distilled water.
For extremely cold climates (less than -37°C [-34°F]):
It may be necessary to increase the coolant concentration above 50%.
NEVER increase the coolant concentration above 60%.
Maximum coolant concentration is 60/40 for cold weather areas.
A coolant concentration of 60% provides freeze point protection down to -50°C (-58°F).
Engine coolant concentrations above 60% decrease the overheat protection characteristics of the engine coolant and may damage the engine.
For extremely hot climates:
It is still necessary to maintain the coolant concentration above 40%.
NEVER decrease the coolant concentration below 40%.
Minimum coolant concentration is 40/60 for warm weather areas.
A coolant concentration of 40% provides freeze point protection down to -26°C (-15°F).
Engine coolant concentrations below 40% decrease the freeze and corrosion protection characteristics of the engine coolant and may damage the engine.
Vehicles driven year-round in non-extreme climates should use a 48/52 to 50/50 (freeze protection -34°C to -37°C [-30°F to -34°F]) mixture of engine coolant and distilled water for optimum cooling system and engine protection.
Install the degas bottle cap to the first stop.
Start and idle the engine until the coolant level stabilizes.
Fill the degas bottle to the maximum fill line.
Install the degas bottle cap to the first stop.
Run the engine at 2,000 rpm for 2 minutes.
Bring the engine to an idle.
Determine if the low temperature thermostat has opened by feeling the lower part of the LH side of the secondary radiator, under the high temperature thermostat housing. If the radiator is cool then the thermostat has not opened. If the radiator is warm then the low temperature thermostat has opened and coolant is flowing through the entire system.
If the coolant level has dropped below the minimum fill line fill the degas bottle to the maximum fill line.
Install the degas bottle cap to the first stop.
Repeat Steps 5 through 7 until the thermostat opens.
The coolant level will rise before the thermostat opens due to thermal expansion. The coolant level will drop after the thermostat opens due to air exiting the system.
Repeat Steps 5 and 7 until the coolant level stabilizes.
Stop the engine and remove the cardboard from the radiator.
Restart and idle the engine for 5 minutes to stabilize the coolant temperature.
Fill the degas bottle to 5 mm (0.196 in) above the maximum fill line.
Install the degas bottle cap.
Verify that the cardboard has been removed from the radiator.
Trending Topics
#9
11-25-2016, 05:08 AM
Larry, awesome info, thanks so much!
My truck has 110,000km on it now (69k miles). I had the standard "check coolant" warning and the dealer just said to reset it.
If I test it and it comes up fine does it still need the coolant swapped out? The 40,000km I've put on it has been 10k towing, 15k highway driving and 15k around town. The truck had FMPP until it expired last yr and the PO had the dealer do all the work on it that came up.
My truck has 110,000km on it now (69k miles). I had the standard "check coolant" warning and the dealer just said to reset it.
If I test it and it comes up fine does it still need the coolant swapped out? The 40,000km I've put on it has been 10k towing, 15k highway driving and 15k around town. The truck had FMPP until it expired last yr and the PO had the dealer do all the work on it that came up.
#10
11-25-2016, 06:21 AM
Post Fiend
No, if the coolant test fine, I would not replace it till closer to the 105,000 mile/175,000 in the Ford maintenance schedule. You can add the Coolant revitalizer VC-12 to boost the coolant if needed.
https://www.fcsdchemicalsandlubrican...ing%20Products
You need to test the coolant with the proper tests. I posted the coolant test procedure on this thread at a different forum. It also shows where you can buy the test kits.
http://www.powerstroke.org/forum/gen...lts-6-7-a.html
https://www.fcsdchemicalsandlubrican...ing%20Products
You need to test the coolant with the proper tests. I posted the coolant test procedure on this thread at a different forum. It also shows where you can buy the test kits.
http://www.powerstroke.org/forum/gen...lts-6-7-a.html
#11
11-25-2016, 02:21 PM
Thanks. I looked at the other thread and the links for the test kits. I'm in Canada so I might check what the dealer would charge to do a single test and then order the kits when I'm in the US in the winter or maybe the dealer sells a test kit. Would be nice if you could buy a single kit for one test cycle with both parts in it.
#12
11-26-2016, 04:44 PM
Flushed my primary system out of boredom one day. I disconnected the coolant line on the oil cooler for a fast, easy access drain. Drained system. Removed the thermostat and put housing back on (takes two mins to remove t-stat). Routed the return lines to the overflow tank to a bucket with some spare hose. Turned heat on full blast. Filled system with distilled water. Watched lines to bucket till clean water came out while topping off system with water. Drain system. Put thermostat back in. Add coolant to system to equal 50%. Top off with water. Perfect flush with perfect 50/50 mix.
Required close to 20 gallons of distilled water to get it clean and have enough for the final fill.
Required close to 20 gallons of distilled water to get it clean and have enough for the final fill.
The following users liked this post:
#13
02-17-2019, 07:20 AM
There are several F250 owners at work. One owns a garage and said that he changes his coolant at 95K to 120K and does not bother to test it unless it comes out looking or smelling like something is wrong. The other guys take their to the dealer when the notices come across his display. The dealership here in Huntsville has given me reason to doubt them so I do much of the maintenance on my wife's 150 and my F250.. They have done a lot of cosmetic upgrades to their facility but customer service seems to have fallen off at the same time. Thanks for everyone's postings on changing the coolant. I never received a check coolant warning only a change warning. I have 95K on the 2015 6.7 F250 and did not know there were two coolant systems until two days ago.
#14
07-06-2020, 08:21 AM
I know this is an old thread, but it has been helpful so far. My 2015 F250 gave me a coolant replacement required on the way home yesterday. Truck only has 50K miles on it, but does tow almost constantly. Trying to decide if I want to do a basic driveway drain and refill, add VC-12 or test first. The primary side of the cooling system can be burped the old fashioned way, but I haven't seen anything specific to the secondary side. Anyone know if you simply run it until the stat opens, and top it off? I see that you drain that side through the lower hose. Also, is there a compatible coolant, or do I just spend the money on Motorcraft?
Thanks for any help.
Thanks for any help.
#15
07-06-2020, 07:31 PM
Tuned
The truck will show a check coolant on your information display at around every 15,000 miles if I remember correcty. Are you sure that is not what you saw? The coolant needs checked for the proper level of components at that time. Coolant should be good for about 100,000 miles, you can add Ford coolant additive twice and then it has to be replaced. Check your manual to be sure. I have 60,000 miles on my coolant. And it is fine. I tow at least half the time.