I am planning a long trip for the summer to celebrate being unemployed (retirement). I have a 8.3 Cummins with the green IAT coolant. I'm considering converting to the OAT Final Charge. I've been researching the forum for any information I can find and corresponding with Red Tractor to get his thoughts. Is there a particular type of Final Charge to look for? I don't really know how old the coolant is so I thought best to start a new. Looking for advice for the older MH if I should switch to OAT. I have posted a picture of a Final Charge example. Thanks in advance!
I use the Final Charge coolant or the equals in most everything. It does it all. It does have some tolerance to be mixed with other coolants. I always have reservations flushing cooling systems as there sometimes can be more harm than good. As much as I hate paying for water I have also learned to just get the ready to use.
Look for specials at Zoro and Walmart. Get it delivered.
I would look to disconnect hoses and use a vacuum blower or compressed air to get out as much as possible Disconnect and blow out the heater loops also. If you have a coolant filter replace the element with one that does not have the SCA. Consider replacing the thermostat(s) and maybe even the water pump if condition unknown. Good time to inspect and replace any hoses or clamps that are questionable. Fill, bleed, and enjoy. If coolant color indicates that there was still a lot of old coolant, run for a year or so and then drain and fill again.
Consider using one of these kits to refill, much easier to get all air out then plan on checking and filling system frequently for a few trips. Jim.
Sorry, forgot. Amazon.com: Wenzhon Radiator Pressure Tester Kit, Coolant Pressure Tester... (https://www.amazon.com/Wenzhon-Universal-Radiator-Pressure-Portable/dp/B0CGCNTBR5/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?crid=2QRSEP3N9CBFP&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.zyXxeOlS7rlP-r2bmfrp-Jf_U7wDvHSl9crFqy_SBPZ0jgxmywXU2HuXZIVADl3UUQeBqwsJ59uyCteIgrt9OFjDHFfEc5RGDWFaWck5BuEgC_x0WSNoZgWKidnQMa9u7w0L2965zH1iPiqFRXHslMVg_xe26WBVMOqtarJrb7Mj0RsjxaHkV3hwJ9tabOmumICIydTvWPBCv3YkcZa-0ONewSv4taC1koYNdzBa2eBm_W4MjjBG42GePNVJeep74ZUcWICAjQasRE6BxU4IacFtFkYNMfj_LOqvGfspfv4.ZyqOiRe06oP6MKRgPG0wSgl5p3xkVjNuSKrhKmB-y-E&dib_tag=se&keywords=coolant%2Bvacuum%2Brefill%2Bkit&qid=1745774834&sprefix=coolant%2Caps%2C891&sr=8-1-spons&sp_csd=d2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9hdGY&th=1)
I have the mechanical C8.3 and I followed Wolfe's step by step change over process. I used Fleetguard OAT and distilled water as per Wolfe's instruction. It's a pain to recycle the old coolant but I'm glad I converted. Purchased OAT at Cummins dealer.
When filling with new coolant leave the filter loose. As you add coolant, it will start to run out the filter. Tighten the filter at this point and fill to full. No air pockets.
Used the Fleetguard Oat when I did mine,found on Ebay.It's the brand Cummins reccomends.