I was warming up the 97 TD yesterday and when I came back to check on her the coolant light was on..Just wondering what is the reccommended coolant brand or type.

 

What is currently in your truck? If you don't know I would flush your system completely. Lots of people like the Shell Rotella ELC. If you buy the premix you will need 6-7 gallons but won't have to mix with distilled or de-ionized water. Unless you spring a leak this coolant should last a couple of hundred thousand miles. Main thing...do not mix regular coolant with ELC.

 

I havent checked it, im assuming its green...after purchasing this truck last year its been more a weekend warrior than anything...I have not checked the coolant level or type, so you do reccommend the shell above the rest?

 

Yes.

 

Your most important question should not be "what kind of coolant should I use?" -- it should be "why am I losing coolant?!"

That said,

Lots of people recommend something like Dexcool or other water-free coolants, citing "cavitation" issues with standard coolants, etc.

I personally use standard coolant/water mix, and have done so for the life of the truck. 150k hard miles later, no engine or cooling issuesof any kind. Plus, you can top off with water or a mix as needed, which can come in handy on the trail or road if you run into an unexpected problem...

 

I'm with Manny... I like the good old fashioned green... the first chance I get to flush out the ELC I do...

that is unless you like replacing the pretty red Cat antifreeze at $80 a gallon.... among others with high prices.

 

it seems to me that its all personal preference, I will top off with water for now. let it run see if there are any leaks., if not im going to chalk the low fluid level to just plain usage..