OAT Coolant check

[smlranger]

I am getting confusing info regarding periodic checking of OAT coolant. I am not talking about freeze point testing but testing to make sure I am not in need of adding extender. I asked for OAT test strips at the local Cummins dealer and they sold me two strips. However, they are clearly labelled 3 way which, according to Cummins literature, are for testing SCA levels in their regular coolant.

I may send a sample to JG lubricants for testing but wondered what others with OAT coolant use for annual testing.

[Mr_D]

As I understand it there are no test strips for OAT coolants and you need a refractometer or a coolant test like you did.

[smlranger]

Originally Posted by Mr_D

As I understand it there are no test strips for OAT coolants and you need a refractometer or a coolant test like you did.

If you go to the Cummins Filtration website (my coach has Cummins Fleetguard OAT coolant), they show a 4 way test strip for OAT. However, if you google Cummins 4 way test strips, I cannot find anything. I also understand the refractometer will only test for freeze point.

I plan to call Cummins Filtration tomorrow and get the straight scoop.

[IanSmith-UK]

Originally Posted by smlranger

I am getting confusing info regarding periodic checking of OAT coolant. I am not talking about freeze point testing but testing to make sure I am not in need of adding extender. ................................

I may send a sample to JG lubricants for testing but wondered what others with OAT coolant use for annual testing.

IMHO - send a sample to Tom @ JG Lubricants - so much more can be learned from comprehensive expert analysis of fluids - they can advise if pH too high or too low, freezepoint, whether the 'gremlins' (soot et all) have sneaked in and all sorts

(This year, CAT tech says change the coolant (6 years) £££££ - CAT analysis (£) says coolant fine, good for at least another 12 months, extender not needed this year - no combustion gasses evident to suggest engine issues, etc, etc = money saved)

I am a big fan of ALL fluids analysis - I look on them as an annual investment - so far they have paid for themselves MANY times over (delayed fluid changes, additional filter changes mid-term thereby prolonging fluid life / use etc, etc)

I change fluids by analysis not timescales

JG are great to deal with - even better as they are on 'your' side of the pond - telephone / email support, discussion awesome even taking into account the time difference from the UK

Ian S.
Exeter, UK
2005 Allure 430 #31321