Coolant question.

GreenF350 · Aug 21, 2012

So...last time I did my water pump I decided to do some research. I think it was on the .org I saw a claim that International recommended EC-1 coolant from 2001 or 2002 up in the 7.3 and the 6.0. I figured what's good for the goose is good for the gander and did a flush and put in some EC-1. My question is, do I need to add any additives for anti-cavitation? The bottle wasn't real clear and figure I better clarify. Any insight is appreciated.
-Aaron

Fromojo · Aug 21, 2012

Isn't ec1 a caterpillar coolant spec?

So what brand did you add?

HOOV3R · Aug 21, 2012

EC1 is the specification created by Caterpillar for cooling system standards.

Shouldn't have to add anything.

GreenF350 · Aug 24, 2012

Cool. I thought it would be good right out of the bottle, but was a bit unsure. Yes EC1 is the Caterpillar spec for coolant, but is supposed to be some good stuff, not to mention that despite being $24 a bottle it is still cheaper than Ford Gold at the dealer. I bought the Prestone stuff after looking all over the area I live in and only finding any EC1 spec'd coolant at one store.
-Aaron

HOOV3R · Aug 24, 2012

Working at a cat dealer has its perks, I get 5 gallons for around $40.

Tx_Powerstroke · Aug 24, 2012

how much is your dealer trying to rip you off for coolant? Every where I looked when I got the ford gold was $16-17.50 a gal. Dealer I got it from gave it to me for $15 because he liked the truck.

TARM · Aug 24, 2012

you do not add additive to ELC coolants. If you do it will limit its life downe to normal coolant that you have to add additives to. That is my understanding right or wrong, but for sure, you do not need any additive to ELC coolant during its duty cycle lifespan which can be anywhere from 300K to 600K 6-10 yrs depending on manf.

Arisley · Aug 26, 2012

Sure do wish Gooch was still around.

Much as I hate to reference other sites, go to The Diesel Stop and see if you can still find Gooches threads on coolant. If that guy told me to run piss in my coolant system, I would build a stand on the front of my truck, stick a big funnel in the degas bottle, buy a keg of beer and invite a bunch of friends over for a radiator filling party.