Antifreeze - Any Special Type?

[dmason]

Couldn't find the answer with my "thread" search so I'll ask here. Any "special" type of antifreeze/coolant needed for a RV radiator? I'm running a Cummins ISL400. Noticed my level was at the MIN marker on my overflow container and thought it was a good time to add some. Thanks.

[robbstein]

You can probably find an answer in the Cummins or Freightliner section, but on my 350 ISC they recommend using 'Compleat' (spelling??) which is available either as a concentrate or in a 50/50 mixture.

[Harm]

I have the same engine on a Spartan chassis and they recommend Final Charge Anti-freeze. All Walmarts used to carry it but it's getting harder to find there. I understand some NAPA's carry it and you may find it at truck stops.

[RVDude]

Check your manual. You may require additional supplements (SCAs). There is strong RV religion regarding just use the same color and you'll be fine, unfortunately, color is not as hard and fast as it used to be in identifying anti freeze.

It's so easy to find exactly what is already in there, KISS, just use what is already in there.

Click this link from the Filter Manufacturers Council for a technical service bulletin on color isn't color anymore.
Color of Antifreeze

[RVDude]

harm - seems Walmart is not stocking Final Charge anymore - even though Old World Industries (makers of Final Charge) will tell you they still do. I've checked coast-to-coast and can't find a Walmart that has it anymore. Used to be every other Walmart had it proudly on the shelf - I never did understand why a Walmart carried that stuff.

I have found Final Charge at many Pilot and some FlyJ truck stops. Yes, NAPA will order a case for you (4 gals either 50/50 or concentrate and in the $18/gal range). Also call around to HD truck stores and you might get lucky. I just got a couple gallons of 50/50 at a Pilot for $12.99/gal. Have also found it at many HD truck stores for good prices

[Cruzer]

Final Charge is an OAT coolant, the best kind for that aplication. It's compatible with other brands such as Fleetguard's ES Compleat OAT (formerly Optimax), which is available at most truck places and every Cummins facility. It mixes well with Final Charge. Check out http://www.rvcruzer.com/coolant.htm for more details on diesel engine coolants.

[RJRobb]

I've been able to find it at Tractor Supply!

[RVDude]

Quote:

Originally Posted by RJRobb I've been able to find it at Tractor Supply!

You mean Final Charge????? OMG!!! That's fantastic!
I've only looked there for AWS46 hydraulic in less than 5 gal containers...

Thanks for the tip!

[David K]

My local Pep Boys store has the Final Charge in their store -- the 50/50 type.

[RVDude]

Quote:

Originally Posted by David K My local Pep Boys store has the Final Charge in their store -- the 50/50 type.

Must be a very regional thing. My PEP Boys and Tractor Supply (Virginia) only have Fleet Charge, not Final Charge and look at me funny when I ask for it.

[Diplomat Don]

dmason......When the coach is cool, the level should be at the MIN marking, don't add coolant. You're coach is still too new for a collant change I would wait another couple of years. 4 years is about the correct time to change.

Here is where it gets complicated. My 2005 had the green coolant that required you check the DCA or SCA every six months. It's an additive that keeps the coolant from damaging the engine. I don't know if/when Monaco changed to the OAT coolant (Organic Acid Technology) which is usually orange. If your coolant is orange, after fout=r years you can buy a booster/recharge for it instead of changing it. Good Luck.

P.S. I found Final Charge 50/50 at Pep Boys and at a Pilot Truck stop. I couldn't find the concentrate and Napa wouldn't order unless I ordered two cases......couldn't afford that....finally found it elsewhere.