JD 820 Antifreeze/Coolant Suggestions

[coveredbridge]

Time to flush the cooling system in my JD 820 3 cyl diesel (circa 1970). It has been a few years since the last flush and with all the developments in coolant types I'm not sure what AF/Coolant to use. The operators manual just says to use ethylene/glycol 55% and 45% water. It currently is filled with regular Prestone yellow/green Ethylene Glycol AF/Coolant. Any suggestions?

 

[pmsmechanic]

I'd be tempted to go to your local rad repair shop and see what they recommend. They would have a good idea what works in your local conditions. As long as they are trust worthy and will give recommendations for your benefit and not so that they can sell you a new rad in a few years. I have a friend that owns a rad shop and I get good advice from him.

 

[Roadworthy]

I'd go with a reputable brand of ethylene glycol antifreeze. I usually stick with the Prestone brand and buy it undiluted. I can then dilute it myself. I flush the system with distilled water then use only distilled water to dilute the antifreeze.

 

[Tx Jim]

I suggest utilizing an anti-freeze designed for a diesel engine. If mixing water with AF I agree that distilled water is preferred.

 

[FTG-05]

I like AF that meet the Cat EC-1 spec. It's called Extended Life Coolant (ELC) and a bunch of people make it.

Amazon.com: Rotella ELC Antifreeze/Coolant Concentrate 1 Gal.: Automotive

Buy Rotella ELC Antifreeze/Coolant Concentrate 1 Gal.: Cooling System - Amazon.com ✓ FREE DELIVERY possible on eligible purchases

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[Tx Jim]

I like AF that meet the Cat EC-1 spec. It's called Extended Life Coolant (ELC) and a bunch of people make it.

Dang some people complain JD parts are high $$$$ but that Rotella AF is 2X as high as JD Cool-gard which is what I utilize in my diesel tractors. Cool-gard is advertised at being good for 6 yrs or 6000 hrs of use

 

[fried1765]

Time to flush the cooling system in my JD 820 3 cyl diesel (circa 1970). It has been a few years since the last flush and with all the developments in coolant types I'm not sure what AF/Coolant to use. The operators manual just says to use ethylene/glycol 55% and 45% water. It currently is filled with regular Prestone yellow/green Ethylene Glycol AF/Coolant. Any suggestions?

I drain the coolant, check the recommended type, and radiator capacity, add 1/2 the capacity of fresh new undiluted coolant (no particular brand), stick the hose in the radiator, fill the radiator until full, and put the cap back on.
I do not flush unless rusty!
Works for me!
No issues for over 65 years, in a wide variety of automobiles & machines.

 

[Tx Jim]

fried1765
Back in the 60's-late 80's when I was employed by a JD dealer it was unheard of for JD engines to get cavitation holes in engine cyl liners but today it a common occurrence. I think one needs to monitor engine coolant PH & be sure coolant more especially for diesel engines has the correct PH & additives.

Adding tap/faucet water to cooling system can be very detrimental & is prone to causing cavitation. You can put tap water in your vehicle's radiator but I don't want tap water in mine

When I was young only vaccine normally administered to a dog was for rabies prevention. Today dogs.cattle & horses for promotion of good health require multiple types vaccines & preventive measures including frequent applications of wormers.

 

[FTG-05]

Dang some people complain JD parts are high $$$$ but that Rotella AF is 2X as high as JD Cool-gard which is what I utilize in my diesel tractors. Cool-gard is advertised at being good for 6 yrs or 6000 hrs of use

I just picked the first one that showed. Tons of people make Cat EC-1 rated ELC coolant. I usually get mine from the local International dealer.

EC-1 ELC (or Ultra ELC) is the big favorite over on the various diesel boards I've been a member of over the years.

Good luck.

 

[fried1765]

fried1765
Back in the 60's-late 80's when I was employed by a JD dealer it was unheard of for JD engines to get cavitation holes in engine cyl liners but today it a common occurrence. I think one needs to monitor engine coolant PH & be sure coolant more especially for diesel engines has the correct PH & additives.

Adding tap/faucet water to cooling system can be very detrimental & is prone to causing cavitation. You can put tap water in your vehicle's radiator but I don't want tap water in mine

When I was young only vaccine normally administered to a dog was for rabies prevention. Today dogs.cattle & horses for promotion of good health require multiple types vaccines & preventive measures including frequent applications of wormers.

Your souce of information for: "tap water is prone to causing cavitation" please ?