changing radiator fluid

[churumbeque]

I have a 2000 TC33D New Holland and want to change the antifreeze. A google search does not tell me how nor what anti freeze to use. Older woman DIY so any help appreciated.

 

[5030]

Most likely conventional green ethylene glycol antifreeze in a 50-50 mix and you can buy it pre mixed at your local auto parts emporium. Just be sure to flush the system with clean water a couple times before installing the new AF and dispose of the used coolant in a timely manner and that don't mean flushing it down the drain or dumping on the ground.

 

[churumbeque]

Most likely conventional green ethylene glycol antifreeze in a 50-50 mix and you can buy it pre mixed at your local auto parts emporium. Just be sure to flush the system with clean water a couple times before installing the new AF and dispose of the used coolant in a timely manner and that don't mean flushing it down the drain or dumping on the ground.

appreciate the info but not sure the best way to drain it and I would NEVER dispose of anything improperly which unfortunately isn't the norm

 

[CliffordK]

I only buy all-vehicle antifreeze. That eliminates the guess work of whether or not it will be OK for your vehicle.

It is probably not as important for an older vehicle, but there is risk with newer cars with getting antifreeze incompatibility.

 

[RjCorazza]

appreciate the info but not sure the best way to drain it and I would NEVER dispose of anything improperly which unfortunately isn't the norm

The radiator will have a drain cock somewhere at the bottom, usually a corner. A word of caution though, these drains on newer equipment can be plastic that is easily broken.
I personally pull the lower radiator hose to drain the coolant. The lower radiator hose will have either a spring clip, or a hose clamp so all you would need is a screwdriver or a pair of pliers.

 

[Roadworthy]

When flushing the system use only distilled water. Tap water has impurities which will build up in the cooling system. You'll probably have to drain into a large pan if you pull the lower radiator hose as fluid will come gushing out. Parts stores may not carry ethylene glycol antifreeze any more. The jugs should list whether the newer ones are compatible or you can ask a knowledgeable sales person. You will probably need two to three gallons of antifreeze to dilute with the same amount of distilled water. Check your manual.

 

[LouNY]

A 2000 New Holland would have had the regular old green anti freeze in it. The first drain does certainly need to be caught for disposal. The lower radiator hose will drain quite a bit of the coolant, however the block will still have a considerable amount left in it. Depending on the age of your radiator hoses this might be a good time to at least inspect them and possibly replace them.
I like to remove the thermostat and using the air compressor or water hose back flush the system good several times. After the last water back flush I'll use air to get most of the water out of the block. Then refill with clean coolant of your choice. If the block still has water in it I will add a gallon of straight coolant before topping off with the 50/50 mix.
Distilled water is the best to blend with the coolant and for the last flush of the engine.

 

[5030]

I always use a Brix Refractometer to gage the concentration of coolant. They are cheap as well and available on Amazon for about 15 bucks. I use it to gage coolant concentration on my flood cooled machine tools as well. Easy to use and very accurate.