We have a 2001 U270 with the 8.3 liter, 350 HP Cummins and a 10 KW Kubota powered 4-cylinder generator. I would like to change the antifreeze for both engines and have several questions:
1. I have the means to capture the water but where are the best/easiest points to drain each of the radiators?
2. How much antifreeze is required for each?
3. I think I remember to use DexCool, correct?
4. Amazon has Zerox DexCool for $14.92/gallon, undiluted, plus tax (free shipping for Prime members). Is this a good deal or does anyone have better suggestions?
Thank you, Robert
You should use a cummins coolant and appropriate coolant filter. I would use the same antifreeze in the genset. Dexcool is not appropriate for a heavy duty diesel.
I would recommend Organic Acid Technology (ES Compleat™ OAT) | Cummins Filtration (http://www.cumminsfiltration.com/organicacidtechnology)
Coolant Antifreeze Brief (http://beamalarm.com/Documents/coolant_antifreeze_brief.html)
Cummins themselves told me to use ANY coolant as long as it says MEETS CUMMINS 14603 specifications on the jug.
But the different types that meet Cummins specs, don't all coexist without issues. And just draining does not get rid of all of the stuff that is currently in there.
See Brett Wolfe's opinion, Reply #3, "Cooling System 101" in the thread below:
Engine coolant - Feetguard ES Compleat OAT (http://www.foreforums.com/index.php?topic=23911.msg187509#msg187509)
Thanks to all of you.
I found Zerex Extended Life Antifreeze which meets Cummins 14603 specs. The cost is $84.42 for 6 gallons, undiluted.
We're in Houston now (I have a minor medical issue) but hope to get to the coach some time late tomorrow. The coach has a Foretravel label on the overflow tank indicating what fluid to use. I'll report on what I find but think that the fluid is a Havoline product which is no longer available. Once I get that info I will research compatibility issues.
I still need to know where the best drain points are.
Thanks again, Robert
Your 01, 8.3 holds 15 gals of coolant.
and your 10k generator holes 10 qts
drain at bottom of both radiators with coolant caps loose.
also I drain the engine blocks at the water drain valve on the engines.
Note there is a special way to bleed air out of your coolant system on your generator.
Look here on the forum for the correct procedures.
That antifreeze should work well in your motorhome. Be sure to follow Brett Wolfe's instructions on thoroughly cleaning the system before putting in the new antifreeze, and be sure to install a
blank coolant filter on your engine. You don't want a coolant filter that contains any additives. Those are incompatible with the new antifreeze you will be using.
D.J., in stating that coolant filters containing additive are not compatible with the antifreeze he is using, what are the affects if one would use the filter with additives?
I'm not a chemist, and so I can't tell you exactly what would happen. I do know that Cummins, Brett Wolfe, and everyone else who has made statements on the subject state that a blank coolant filter should be used with OAT antifreeze.
I checked the coach in the rain. The sticker shows Texaco ELC. Amazon has filter # WF2077 for $10.99 so I will probably get that and the antifreeze from them. Thanks again to all of you for you're help.
We're leaving for Nac (MOT) Monday to get them to fix several problems that I can't handle. Perhaps we'll see someone from the forum there. Wish us luck.
Double check my memory, but I think that's the same as Shell Rotella ELC. Tractor Supply sells Shell Rotella ELC concentrate, usually around $15/gallon Shell Rotella ELC Antifreeze, 1 gal. - For Life Out Here (http://www.tractorsupply.com/tsc/product/shell-rotella-elc-antifreeze-1-gal?cm_vc=-10005)
My 2003 has only used Rotella ELC. Is there any reason for me to change?
Tom,
No, it's the same stuff.