How much coolant does a 2017 Ram 2500 6.4 take?
The Ram 2500 with the 6.4L Hemi typically requires about 14–16 quarts (roughly 3.5–4 gallons) of coolant for a full cooling-system refill. The exact amount can vary depending on whether you count the heater core, reservoir, and any drains you perform during service.
Cooling system capacity for the 6.4L Hemi
The cooling system in a 2017 Ram 2500 with the 6.4L engine includes the radiator, engine block and heads, heater core plumbing, hoses, and the expansion reservoir. When performing a complete drain and refill, plan for roughly 14–16 quarts (about 13–15 liters) of coolant in total.
- Radiator and hoses that carry coolant throughout the system
- Engine block and cylinder heads which contain a large portion of the cooling volume
- Heater core and related plumbing that return cooled liquid to the engine
- Coolant reservoir and associated tubes used for expansion and top-offs
In practice, the total requirement for a full system refill is typically in the 14–16 quart range, with minor variation by vehicle condition and whether any additional components are drained.
Coolant type and compatibility
Use the coolant type recommended by Chrysler/Mopar for modern Hemi engines. The 6.4L Ram typically uses a long-life organic acid coolant (Dex-Cool or an equivalent Dex-Cool–compatible OAT coolant) in a 50/50 premixed solution. Always verify the exact specification in your owner's manual or service manual and use coolant that meets Chrysler Mopar specifications.
- Mopar Dex-Cool or an equivalent long-life OAT coolant that is compatible with Dex-Cool
- Premixed 50/50 coolant to simplify mixing and reduce the chance of errors
- A coolant labeled as suitable for Chrysler/Dodge/Jeep vehicles and meeting the OEM specification
Using the correct coolant type helps ensure proper cooling performance and long-term engine protection. If in doubt, consult your dealership or a qualified mechanic before mixing or topping off.
Refill and bleeding the cooling system
Bleeding air from the cooling system ensures efficient operation and prevents hot spots. Follow these general steps for a full refill and bleed process. If you are unsure or uncomfortable, have a professional perform the service.
- Park on level ground and let the engine cool completely before starting any work.
- Place a drain pan under the radiator. Open the radiator drain valve or petcock to drain the radiator, and also drain the engine block if your service procedure calls for it.
- Close the drain and mix coolant to a 50/50 premix if you are not using premixed coolant. Begin by filling the radiator with the premixed coolant.
- With the radiator cap off, start the engine and run it until the thermostat opens and the coolant begins circulating. Watch for air bubbles and add coolant as needed to keep the level rising steadily.
- Continue until the system is free of air pockets and the coolant level in the radiator/reservoir stabilizes at the proper mark with the engine at operating temperature.
- Install the radiator cap, top off the reservoir as needed, and let the engine cool. Recheck levels and top off if necessary after the first drive and cool-down cycle.
Proper bleeding and topping off help prevent overheating and ensure reliable cooling performance. Dispose of old coolant at a proper recycle facility and never mix coolants that are not compatible with Dex-Cool or the OEM specification.
FAQ and quick facts
Total cooling-system capacity
For a complete fill of the 2017 Ram 2500 with a 6.4L Hemi, plan for roughly 14–16 quarts (about 13–15 liters) of coolant. This includes radiator, heater core, and other related passages.
What coolant should I use?
Use Mopar Dex-Cool or an equivalent long-life OAT coolant that is compatible with Dex-Cool and meets Chrysler specifications. A 50/50 premixed formulation is convenient and commonly recommended.
Summary
The 2017 Ram 2500 6.4L Hemi typically requires about 14–16 quarts of coolant for a full system refill, with exact amounts varying by components involved and whether the heater core is drained. Use the recommended Dex-Cool–type coolant in a 50/50 premixed ratio, and follow proper bleeding procedures to avoid air pockets. Always consult the owner's or service manual for vehicle-specific figures and procedures, or rely on a qualified technician for service.
How much coolant does a 2016 Ram 2500 6.4 Hemi hold?
The total coolant capacity for a 2016 Ram 2500 with the 6.4L Hemi engine is 18.3 quarts (17.30 liters). This is the total system capacity, which includes the radiator and reservoir.
- Total Capacity: 18.318.318.3 quarts (17.3017.3017.30 liters)
- Application: 2016 Ram 2500 with the 6.4L Hemi engine
What kind of coolant does a 2017 Ram 2500 6.4 take?
The correct coolant for a 2017 Ram 2500 with the 6.4L engine is a Mopar MS-90032 OAT (Organic Acid Technology) coolant, which can be identified by its purplish-pink color. Aftermarket equivalents are also available and are often labeled as Zerex G30 or other OAT coolants.
Recommended coolant type
- Specification: MS-90032 OAT
- Mopar Part Number: 68163848AB or 68163849AB
- Color: Purplish-pink, as specified by Mopar, although aftermarket OAT coolants may vary in color
- Aftermarket equivalents: Look for coolants that meet the MS-90032 specification or are compatible with MS-12106, such as Zerex G30 (purple)
Important considerations
- Do not use generic coolants: Avoid using generic or universal coolants, as they can be incompatible and lead to expensive engine damage.
- Check owner's manual: Always consult your owner's manual for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding your specific vehicle's requirements.
- Proper mixing: If using a concentrate, ensure it is mixed with the correct type and amount of coolant. If using a pre-mixed solution, it's ready to use as is.
How many gallons of coolant does a 6.4 Hemi take?
A 6.4L Hemi engine typically requires about 5.5 gallons of coolant, though this can vary slightly depending on the vehicle. To ensure proper performance and protection, always use a 50/50 mix of a compatible coolant and distilled water.
- Total capacity: Approximately 222222 quarts or 5.55.55.5 gallons.
- Mix ratio: Use a 50/50 mix of coolant and distilled water for best results.
- Best practice: After refilling, remember to bleed the cooling system to remove any air pockets and prevent overheating.
How much coolant does a Ram 2500 hold?
A Ram 2500's coolant capacity varies by model year and engine, with a 2018 6.7L diesel holding 23.8 quarts (22.5 liters) and a 2008 6.7L Cummins holding 34 quarts (8.5 gallons). For other models, capacities can range significantly; for example, a 2001 V10 has a system capacity of about 6 gallons, and a 5.9L engine from 1998.5-2002 holds approximately 29.5 quarts. Always check your owner's manual for the specific capacity of your truck.
Capacity by model and engine
- 2018 6.7L Diesel: 23.8 quarts (22.5 liters)
- 2008 6.7L Cummins: 34 quarts (8.5 gallons)
- 1998.5 - 2002 5.9L Cummins: 29.5 quarts
- 2003 5.9L Cummins: 18.7 quarts
- 2001 V10: Approximately 6 gallons (24 quarts)
Important considerations
- Check your owner's manual: The most accurate information for your specific vehicle will be in its owner's manual.
- Drain vs. system capacity: The amount of coolant you drain is often less than the total system capacity because some coolant remains trapped in the engine block and heater core.
- Mixture: When replacing coolant, you will need a mixture of coolant and distilled water, typically a 50/50 ratio. Calculate the amount of each needed based on the total system capacity.
- Bleeding the system: After refilling, it's crucial to "bleed" the system by running the engine with the cap off to remove any air pockets, which can cause inaccurate fill readings and overheating.
