Coolant change time

[FDchief]

How many gallons of dexcool do I need for my 8.1 Vortec with a 50/50 mix for a flush and change?

[bobpie]

I believe I used 5 gallons in my ford.

[Clay L]

I used 5 1/2 gallons in my 8.1L a few weeks ago.

You might want to do a search on the subject. There is some info from Max H on how to open the drain on the radiator (use a 1/4 inch ratchet - the square fits the square hole and turn about a half turn).
Also there are two drain plugs on the the engine - one on each side and they use a metric hex. Sizes and location are in a post I made.

[FDchief]

You both are saying around 5 gallons. Is that mix or straight coolant. Sounds like 5 gallons of mix.

[Clay L]

That's a 50 50 mix on mine.

I got about three 1/2 gallons out of the radiator and about two gallons out of the engine block.

Also even though the manual says tap water is okay to use I bought 3 gallons of distilled water for about $0.80 a gallon and used that for the mix.

[FDchief]

5 - 6 gallons of the mix. Got it. I always use distilled water in my batteries and cooling systems. I appreciate the help.

[travel]

Changed ours Monday and system says 23.5 qts so it would take 3 gal of antifreeze and a little less of water. Costs $68.00 here at garage

[Deaop]

Hi,

I just bought 3 gals tonight. Dexcool. It was 13.99/gal at auto zone but they had a 50/50 ( Dexcool) mix for 11.99/gal. Seems to me that the 50/50 mix would be a lot to pay for water. I almost missed it as I can't read Spanish. The manager told me about it. Also said that it can be mixed as a 70/30 mix also. I will stay at 50/50 and distilled water.

Ron

[FDchief]

I got my Dexcool at Wally World for 11.99 a gallon. I mixed it myself with distilled water. Some folks just say drinking water, but I go with the tried and true distilled. I did a 50/50 mix.