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Topic: Coolants compatible with Shell Rotella ELC (Read 5032 times) previous topic - next topic

Coolants compatible with Shell Rotella ELC

Out here in the boondocks it is difficult to find Shell Rotella ELC.  I know (from reading the web) that Texaco, Cummins ES Compeat, Cat, and Fleetrite are compatible.  But, as with the Rotella, out in the boondocks these are difficult to find.

So, I called Shell's customer service.  I explained that I had Rotella ELC in my radiator and needed to add more coolant.  I asked what coolants could I add.  The response I received was, "Any coolant that meets Cat EC-1 is compatible with Shell Rotella ELC".

There are Zerex, Prestone, and other "common" brands have a variety that meets Cat EC-1.  These are not normally sold in Walmart, O'reilly's, Advance Auto, or other similar stores.  You probably have to go to NAPA or Car Quest.

Jim McNeece
2003 U320 40'
2017 Chevy Colorado Tow

Re: Coolants compatible with Shell Rotella ELC

Reply #1 –
Quote from: Jim McNeece –
Out here in the boondocks it is difficult to find Shell Rotella ELC.  I know (from reading the web) that Texaco, Cummins ES Compeat, Cat, and Fleetrite are compatible.  But, as with the Rotella, out in the boondocks these are difficult to find.

So, I called Shell's customer service.  I explained that I had Rotella ELC in my radiator and needed to add more coolant.  I asked what coolants could I add.  The response I received was, "Any coolant that meets Cat EC-1 is compatible with Shell Rotella ELC".

There are Zerex, Prestone, and other "common" brands have a variety that meets Cat EC-1.  These are not normally sold in Walmart, O'reilly's, Advance Auto, or other similar stores.  You probably have to go to NAPA or Car Quest.
Here is a list of compatible replacements.
http://beamalarm.com/image/Radiator/coolants_matrix-1.jpg
The selected media item is not currently available.Barry BEAM #16014
2003 U320 40' AGDS
Beamalarm, Foretravel technical help and specifications
"Whatever the mind can conceive and believe, it can achieve"

Re: Coolants compatible with Shell Rotella ELC

Reply #2 –
I notice that Dex-Cool is listed as a compatible product.  I have seen a number of web posting that warn against Dex-Cool.  I have not verified what might be the problem.

Jim McNeece
2003 U320 40'
2017 Chevy Colorado Tow

Re: Coolants compatible with Shell Rotella ELC

Reply #3 –
Dex-Cool does not meet either CAT or Cummins specs.
Regards,
Brett

'99 42' Foretravel Xtreme
'14 Brown Motorsports Stacker
'05 Chevy SSR
'02 BMW R1150R

Re: Coolants compatible with Shell Rotella ELC

Reply #4 –
Jim,

My advice is to add distilled water now (assuming we are talking about no more than a couple of gallons).  When/as soon as you can get more of the exact same coolant, drain 1/2 the quantity of distilled water you added and add your correct coolant CONCENTRATE.

Other options may work, but this one will ensure compatibility.
Brett Wolfe
EX: 1993 U240
Moderator, ForeForum 2001-
Moderator Diesel RV Club 2002-
Moderator, FMCA Forum 2009-2020
Chairman FMCA Technical Advisory Committee 2011-2020

Re: Coolants compatible with Shell Rotella ELC

Reply #5 –
I agree with Brett's solution, because I think that charts that show compatible may mean it will not damage engine, but does not mean that the different anti-freeze solutions are completely inter-mixable. I think it is worth carrying a couple of extra concentrate gallons of whatever is in the cooling system. There are way too many choices of anti-freeze these days.

BTW, we switched to Fleetguard Compleat blue many years ago and replace it about every 4-5 years and checking DCA several times a year always find it correct.

Re: Coolants compatible with Shell Rotella ELC

Reply #6 –
I spent a good amount of time researching Texaco ELC compatilble antifreeze as this is what my coach came with.  Shell bought out Texaco and I was told by Shell it is the same product.  I agree with Brett use distilled water till you can locate rotella. 
Unlike the old days mixing incompatable antifreezes can really cause a mess.  I carry 2 gals with me just in case. 
Dont know if there is an MHC Kenworth store near you, but they carry it as well.
Jerry
Jerry & Nanci
1999 U270 34'WTFI
2011 Malibu
A smart man knows what to say, a wise man knows when to say it.

Re: Coolants compatible with Shell Rotella ELC

Reply #7 –
Found Rotella at an International truck service and parts store in Albert Lea, Mn.

I asked why he didn't carry the normal International brand, Fleetrite, he said Fleetrite was just rebranded Rotella. 

I have seen various web postings that Fleetrite was just rebranded Rotella; however, like anything else you read  on the web, one should ALWAYS be skeptical.
Jim McNeece
2003 U320 40'
2017 Chevy Colorado Tow