What kind of coolant does a Ram 2500 diesel take?
When it comes to maintaining your Ram 2500 diesel, choosing the right coolant is crucial for ensuring optimal engine performance and longevity. Coolant, also known as antifreeze, plays a vital role in regulating engine temperature, preventing overheating, and protecting against corrosion. In this article, we’ll explore the specific type of coolant your Ram 2500 diesel requires and why it’s important to use the correct one.
Understanding the Coolant Requirements for a Ram 2500 Diesel
The Ram 2500 diesel, particularly models equipped with the Cummins turbo diesel engine, requires a specific type of coolant to meet the engine's needs. The recommended coolant for most Ram 2500 diesel trucks is an OAT (Organic Acid Technology) coolant. This type of coolant is designed to provide long-lasting protection against corrosion and is compatible with the materials used in modern diesel engines.
Key Features of OAT Coolant
OAT coolant is preferred for Ram 2500 diesel engines due to its unique properties. Here are some of its key features:
- Long Lifespan: OAT coolant typically lasts up to 5 years or 150,000 miles before needing replacement.
- Corrosion Protection: It provides excellent protection against rust and corrosion, which is essential for the aluminum and steel components in diesel engines.
- Compatibility: OAT coolant is compatible with the advanced materials used in modern diesel engines, including gaskets and seals.
- High-Temperature Performance: It is designed to perform well under the high-temperature conditions typical of diesel engines.
Using the correct coolant ensures that your engine remains protected and performs efficiently, reducing the risk of costly repairs down the line.
How to Identify the Right Coolant
When purchasing coolant for your Ram 2500 diesel, look for the following indicators to ensure you’re getting the right product:
- Color: OAT coolant is typically orange or red in color. However, always verify the specifications on the label rather than relying solely on color.
- Label Information: The label should specify that the coolant is OAT-based and meets the requirements of ASTM D6210 or equivalent standards.
- Manufacturer Recommendations: Check your vehicle’s owner’s manual for the exact coolant specifications recommended by Ram.
By carefully checking these details, you can ensure that the coolant you choose is suitable for your Ram 2500 diesel.
Steps to Replace Coolant in a Ram 2500 Diesel
Replacing the coolant in your Ram 2500 diesel is a straightforward process if done correctly. Follow these steps:
- Ensure the engine is completely cool before starting the process.
- Locate the radiator drain plug and place a container underneath to catch the old coolant.
- Open the drain plug and allow the old coolant to drain completely.
- Flush the cooling system with distilled water to remove any remaining debris or old coolant.
- Close the drain plug and refill the system with the recommended OAT coolant mixed with distilled water (if not pre-diluted).
- Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes to circulate the coolant. Check for leaks and top off the coolant if necessary.
Properly replacing your coolant ensures that your engine remains protected and operates efficiently. If you’re unsure about performing this task yourself, consider visiting a trusted auto repair shop for assistance.
Conclusion
Using the correct coolant for your Ram 2500 diesel is essential for maintaining engine health and performance. Always opt for OAT coolant as recommended by the manufacturer, and follow proper maintenance practices to keep your truck running smoothly. If you have any questions or need professional assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to a trusted auto service provider like Kevin’s Autos. We’re here to help with all your vehicle maintenance needs!
Frequently Asked Questions
What coolant to use for Ram 2500 diesel?
Genuine Mopar Parts 68048953AC Antifreeze/Coolant - 1 Gallon Bottle.
Is there special coolant for diesels?
Zerex Heavy Duty Extended Life Antifreeze/Coolant
This formula is primarily intended for heavy-duty diesel engines and is designed to last a good amount of time before replenishment is required. However, while suitable for diesel generators etc, it should NOT be used in trucks and cars.
Does Dodge use special coolant?
Every vehicle manufacturer, including Dodge has developed its own coolant or requires a apparent coolant that is unique to individual years and models. There are copious colors of coolants to aid distinguish each including green, blue, purple red, yellow, and orange.
What is the best coolant for a turbo diesel engine?
The best type of coolant for a diesel engine is one with a high glycerol level because it provides the most effective lubrication. Most coolants contain 30% to 70% glycerol, but the best coolants are up to 95% glycerol. Understanding the different types of coolants can help you choose the best option for your vehicle.
What color is Ram 2500 coolant?
What color coolant does 2019 Ram 2500 use? It's accessible to understand that color doesn't matter. While most Organic Acid Technology (OAT) coolants are usually orange, yellow, red or purple, Hybrid Organic Acid Technology (HOAT) coolants are orange and yellow. There's quite a bit of overlap.
Does it matter what coolant you use in a diesel truck?
Using an organic acid coolant should provide effective cooling for the entire life of your diesel engine while protecting aluminum, magnesium and other metals from corrosion. This type of coolant is a very convenient option, minimizing the need for regular additives or maintenance.
What color should diesel coolant be?
Color: predominantly bright green. Organic Acid Technology (OAT): This type of coolant uses organic acids and has extended service life. OAT coolants are designed for use in heavy and light-duty diesel engines, as well as natural gas and gasoline engines.
What kind of antifreeze does a Cummins diesel use?
Cummins offer two technologies to cover your needs: PGXL® HD (hybrid technology, dual buffer with nitrite/molybdate cavitation protection) and PGXL® Vital (extended life OAT technology that is nitrite free and has minimal maintenance requirements).
Can you run green antifreeze in a diesel?
The “inorganic” terminology will be clearer shortly. This product is, of course, the familiar “green” coolant. Good stuff. And still perfectly fine for many engine applications, including current small diesels as well as many legacy products still in service.
What happens if you put wrong coolant in diesel engine?
Putting the Wrong Engine Coolant in Your Car
Mixing coolants of various types can have extensive and expensive consequences. As mentioned above, the mix can solidify, block your engine, and cause overheating, which can, in turn, cause the following problems: Degraded cylinder heads. Head gasket breakage.
