DexCool ok in 445?

[KennedyDiesel]

The problem with Dex cool stems from GM's inability to build a proper sealing intake gasket. We use Dex cool in the GM diesels and there has never been any evidence of issues in any of mine from 1996 model forward. It is my coolant of choice. In the case of the Deere with the open vented reservoir I would stick with the conventional green ethylene glycol though. Prestone was always my favorite although I haven't kept up with the green stuff.

I suppose I really should flush my 455. I've had to add periodically, but haven't flushed it since new in 95/6 that I can recall. It just stays clean...

 

[Snap]

Funny thing about flushing.

Took our Subaru in for an overdue coolant change and the service department warned that Subaru warns against flushing; just drain and change. I was prepared to go the whole nine yards but they would not. Then again Subarus have a history of having touchy head gaskets and perhaps they want to leave well enough alone.

Perhaps it might be based on whether there is a change in coolant specs and how well the original stuff did. Mixing new and old of the same mixture is probably not a concern.

Our tractor hasn't been changed in 10 years, but the coolant and inside of the radiator look good.
I'll do a clean water rinse out on the switchover to the newer JD coolant but I don't like introducing caustic flushing agents into the system.

 

[greg_g]

greg_g
Have you experience with DexCool? Have you seen the sludge that it turns into over time?.

Yup. Had Dex in an Oldsmobile and in a Chevy. Never witnessed said sludge. But having said that, I believe in comprehensive preventative maintenance. Got it drilled into me throughout 20+ years in the Navy.

//greg//

 

[imgone52]

I lost a 4.3L V-6 in a five year old GMC Jimmy to the whole DexCool / GM mess. Despite all the claims as to how those problems arose, I would not use the product again as long as there are alternatives.