Replacing Radiator with Aluminum

[mbavers]

1984 M1008. Thinking of replacing radiator with aluminum. If I do, what type anti freeze do I use. I've spent so much time reading all the info (some of it conflicting) that my brain hurts. Does anyone know for certain what in heck difference between pink, yellow, red, whatever?? I guess I won't be able to use good old green anymore.

Also, would appreciate leads on recommended radiator and where to buy.

 

[Jeepadict]

Many positive things about Champion Radiators in Orange, CA. Tell them you have an '84 Chevy K30 w/the 6.2L Diesel and TH400 trans...don't mention it's a CUCV.

My reccomendation is the standard common green coolant at a 50/50 mix. No need to make it more complicated, KISS.

Sent from my SM-G970U using Tapatalk

 

[Finnegan1008]

A high quality 50/50 standard coolant mix has worked well for me with both aftermarket aluminum radiators and in marine applications that use a mix of aluminum and bronze cooling system parts.

Make sure to use distilled water for the mix

 

[mbavers]

A high quality 50/50 standard coolant mix has worked well for me with both aftermarket aluminum radiators and in marine applications that use a mix of aluminum and bronze cooling system parts.

Make sure to use distilled water for the mix

What is a standard coolant? I look in the auto parts store and there must be 10 or so different types-even different "standard old green"-which is supposed to not work well with aluminum.

 

[Finnegan1008]

What is a standard coolant? I look in the auto parts store and there must be 10 or so different types-even different "standard old green"-which is supposed to not work well with aluminum.

I’m referring to the green stuff, I’ve never read that it doesn’t play well with aluminum UNLESS you don’t use the right water. People mix with regular tap water and that will potentially contain minerals that will damage the radiator. If in doubt don’t use concentrated coolant and get the pre mixed.

Green coolant comes in radiators that are aluminum cored from the factory.

here’s an article

https://www.dewitts.com/blogs/news/14054309-what-coolant-should-i-use-with-an-aluminum-radiator

 

[Adrok]

I've used standard green is most applications UNLESS specific needs dictate otherwise: sensative components, special seals, specific temperature, ect.
IMHO it is the use of tap water, having chemicals and minerals, that is the biggest contributor to problems. USE DISTILLED

Here is a COPPER / ALUMINUM heater core ( I understand your radiator is aluminum ) with LESS than 200 hours run time. Green coolant with tap water.
The new core is well over 1100 hours, 7 years, and still looks ( maybe a little dusty). Used Green coolant and DISTILLED water.

 

[mbavers]

Many positive things about Champion Radiators in Orange, CA. Tell them you have an '84 Chevy K30 w/the 6.2L Diesel and TH400 trans...don't mention it's a CUCV.

My reccomendation is the standard common green coolant at a 50/50 mix. No need to make it more complicated, KISS.

Sent from my SM-G970U using Tapatalk

Thanks.

 

[mbavers]

A high quality 50/50 standard coolant mix has worked well for me with both aftermarket aluminum radiators and in marine applications that use a mix of aluminum and bronze cooling system parts.

Make sure to use distilled water for the mix

Thanks.

 

[mbavers]

I've used standard green is most applications UNLESS specific needs dictate otherwise: sensative components, special seals, specific temperature, ect.
IMHO it is the use of tap water, having chemicals and minerals, that is the biggest contributor to problems. USE DISTILLED

Here is a COPPER / ALUMINUM heater core ( I understand your radiator is aluminum ) with LESS than 200 hours run time. Green coolant with tap water.
The new core is well over 1100 hours, 7 years, and still looks ( maybe a little dusty). Used Green coolant and DISTILLED water.

View attachment 921562

Thanks.

 

[mbavers]

I just received an answer from Valvoline Global: " We recommend our Zerex Original Green coolant for your vehicle. The formulation is designed for diesels and protects all engine cooling system metals from corrosion including aluminum ."