John Deere 6400 Tractor Engine Coolant Recommendation

[landrand]

I'm getting ready to change the engine coolant on a John Deere 6400 tractor. Unfortunately, I've never changed coolant in a tractor before so I'm educating myself a bit before doing so. Of course John Deere recommends the JD Cool-Guard coolant for the tractor but am wondering if it's possible and safe to substitute a coolant that I can get from a local auto parts or tractor supply store?

 

[Roadworthy]

You can probably safely substitute another brand if it meets the same specifications. The old standby was ethylene glycol based but other types have entered the marketplace, too. Now Prestone and some other brands have a universal coolant that's supposed to work with everything. I'd drain the system completely then fill it with distilled water. Run it for a bit to get it mixed with any remaining coolant then drain it again. You may even wish to repeat this process. You should now be able to fill it with whatever coolant you choose. If it's not pre mixed don't forget to make it a 50/50 mix with DISTILLED water.

 

[hosspuller]

Be aware that Deere uses wet sleeve diesel engines. That is the piston are in a sleeve instead of a bore in the block. The advantage is: replace the sleeves and you have a new engine block. I have not confirmed yours is a wet sleeve engine but the chances are good it is. The coolant needs to protect the sleeves from cavitation damage. So just any coolant will not work.

 

[beenthere]

John Deere recommends the JD Cool-Guard coolant for the tractor

What are you saving in $$$ to risk making a mistake?

Makes little difference to us, but unless you know and are willing to take the risk ?? You have a tough decision.

 

[landrand]

I bought the JD Cool-Guard coolant. After looking around at area shops, the JD cool-guard was $20 which is about the same as other coolants cost. Thanks everyone for the info.