Let's talk (Volvo) coolant

We just stick with red. I have either final charge or Rotella ELC available at our terminal for the drivers. Use Road Choice too. 10 trucks, plenty of issues, but none caused by coolant choice...

 

This are the two I’ve seen on a Volvo with d13 engines. 85% of them were red stickers

 

I don’t have a Volvo, but I use the red coolant with a semi truck on the bottle sold at Walmart. I’ve also used the brand TA/Petro sells. The color is also red. All the mechanics who have added new coolant to my truck have always added the red coolant.

 

The majority of new trucks use red ELC coolant as the factory fill.

 

I'd say to use whatever it came from the factory with, that's what I do. I'd avoid the "mixes with anything" stuff. Also, always mix with distilled water, change the filter when required, and flush and refill when recommended, as the lubricating qualities break down.

In an emergency, you do what you gotta do. I drew water from a creek one time when I had too.

 

I’m confused. So they sell concentrated coolant that needs to be mixed with 50% (distilled) water? I’ve only used coolant that is ready to use. I remember when I had a car, that I would see those concentrated coolant bottles at AutoZone.

 

I've never bought the 50/50 stuff, up here the winter temps can hit 35 below, so I run it at about a 65/35 mix.

The reason for distilled water is the mineral content in tap or spring water can cause problems within the engine, like sandblasting it from the inside out, actually making holes if bad enough. Your coolant filter will remove much of it though, just don't overlook changing it....