Let’s talk coolants

[DCIV]

I’m getting ready to do coolant in both the escape and avalanche. Honestly the vr4 could use a swap as well.

Minus the different types for automobile makers, is there really any better coolant than others?


Coop

[Jeff V.]

Use what the manufacturer recommends. A lot of newer cars have plastic and other materials that will break down if you use the wrong coolant.

[DCIV]

[quote=""Jeff V.""]Use what the manufacturer recommends. A lot of newer cars have plastic and other materials that will break down if you use the wrong coolant.[/quote]

I was going to on the escape. It seems like Chevy moved away from their coolant brand a while ago (maybe I’m wrong there) and didn’t know if I should as well. The vr4 is really what I’m thinking more performance. I think it’s just distilled water with a lubricant additive.


Coop

[Jeff V.]

GM has been using DexCool for a while now. Dunno if it's in your Avalanche or not. I think the only real complaint about it is that it gums up when you leave it in too long.

[vr4]

[quote=""Jeff V.""]GM has been using DexCool for a while now. Dunno if it's in your Avalanche or not. I think the only real complaint about it is that it gums up when you leave it in too long.[/quote]

GM is still using Dex.

I've said it elsewhere but don't think I've ever mentioned it here.

The only time I've seen Dex get gummy is when oil gets in it. The 3.1, 3.4, 3.8, and 4.3/5.0/5.7 triplets intake gaskets leak and oil gets mixed with the coolant.

Look at the other engines (LS, 4 cylinders, Euro designed 6s, Atlas inline engines) I've never seen Dex gum up in those even after 200k.

[Jeff V.]

The service interval for Dex is what, 5 years? I need to do it on the Corvette, and I'll do the new H3 just so I know it's been done. I might actually pay to have those done. I don't know if I want to deal with the mess and waste if I try to fully flush it out myself.

[DCIV]

[quote=""Jeff V.""]The service interval for Dex is what, 5 years? I need to do it on the Corvette, and I'll do the new H3 just so I know it's been done. I might actually pay to have those done. I don't know if I want to deal with the mess and waste if I try to fully flush it out myself.[/quote]

So let’s talk about a flush. How important is a flush? Here is what I usually do. Drain all I can, fill with water, let run till thermostat opens and turn on the heater. Drain and refill with new.

Good enough?


Coop