To ensure that your Ford 6.0 Powerstroke’s performance is great, one important factor to pay attention to is the type of coolant used for the engine. The type of coolant used with the 6.0 powerstroke will determine the engine’s running condition. It will affect how the cooling system will regulate the heat of the engine; therefore, using the wrong coolant means the engine’s heat will not be properly regulated.
The coolant helps to regulate the heat within the engine. Many people neglect the type of coolants they use in their vehicles; however, not all are suitable for all engines.
Some coolants are better suited because they meet the manufacturer’s specifications and requirements.
Some great coolants for the 6.0 powerstroke engine include the Genuine Ford Fluid VC-7-B, Genuine Subaru SOA868V9270 Super Coolant, etc. Most of this coolant follows the Ford Specification WSS-M97B51-A1.
Here is a list of our recommended 7 best coolant for 6.0 powerstroke. Enjoy the read!
The Best Coolant for 6.0 Powerstroke
It can be tricky to select the best coolants for 6.0 powerstroke. It is because while coolants may look the same, they react and act differently. They are distinct in chemical components and additives. Using the wrong coolants for your 6.0 Powerstroke could be dangerous like coolant in exhaust issue. That is why you need the right recommendation for the engine.
Below are some of the bestantifreeze for 6.0 powerstroke.
1. Genuine Ford fluid VC-7-B
The Genuine Ford Fluid is a red concentrated antifreeze that is ethylene glycol based. It is a recommended coolant – Ford 6.0 dieselthat will provide year-round cooling and anti-boil services. It contains special additives that help protect the engine against corrosion.
Also, it requires a 50/50 mixture of antifreeze and distilled water.
Features
a. Ideal for both diesel and gasoline engines.
b. Provide freezing protection down to -34°F (-37°C) and boiling protection up to 265°F (129°C).
c. Contains a bittering agent
Pros
a. Extended coolant life with a change interval of 100,000 to 200,000 initial change and 100,000 miles after that.
b. Immediate corrosion protection.
c. improved resistance to deposits.
d. Warranty is for two years with unlimited mileage and included labor.
Cons
a. Limited use of WSS-M97B51-A1 specified vehicles.
2. Genuine Subaru SOA868V9270 Super Coolant
This coolant option is most suitable for those who use the 6.0 Powerstroke engine under freezing temperatures and need trusted protection for the engine against the temperature. It provides protection for cold weather conditions of up to -60 °F. It can also be used with non-metal surfaces without risk of any damage.
Features
a. It is made of ethylene glycol.
b. It can be used on non-metal surfaces.
c. It is a blue-colored coolant.
d. It can prevent freezing of up to -60 °F.
Pros
a. It is pre-diluted.
b. It is situated for non-metal parts.
c. It is a trusted coolant.
Cons
a. It is slightly expensive.
3. Zerex Original Green Low Silicate
The Zerex original green low silicate maximizes the 6.0 Powerstroke engine life in older passenger vehicles and light trucks. It meets the specifications of cars made by GM, Hyundai, Kia, Chrysler, Ford, Mazda, and others that specify green low-silicate coolants with inorganic additive technology.
It provides one of the best protections against leaks, deposits, corrosion, freezing, and boiling.
Features
a. Fights against corrosion without borates, 2-EHA, amines, or nitrites.
b. Protects down to -34 °F.
c. It contains a patented acid corrosion inhibitor package for longer cooling services.
d. Bittering agent of 30 to 50 ppm of denatonium benzoate.
Pros
a. Suitable for both heavy and light-duty vehicles.
b. High-quality additives for protection against leaks.
c. Performs well at extremely cold temperatures.
d. Provides long-lasting protection.
e. It is approved for the 6.0 Powerstroke engine.
Cons
a. Contains toxic chemicals like ethylene glycol.
b. It is not premixed.
4. Mopar 68163849A
Mopar 68163849AB is a pre-diluted coolant that is made for Jeep engines. It has special Organic Acid Technology (OAT), which helps prevent corrosion in the cooling system and engine. These special additives also increase the engine’s life and other essential parts that the fluid flows through, making it perfect for the 6.0 Powerstroke engine.
The coolant is suitable for vehicles like Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, or Ram that make use of 6.0L Powerstroke engines
Features
a. Pre-diluted coolant and does not need to be mixed with water.
b. Purple coolant fluid.
c. It is a good coolant for extreme weather conditions.
d. Long-lasting protection against corrosion.
e. It can last up to 150,000 miles.
Pros
a. Effective engine temperature regulation.
b. It is very durable.
Cons
a. Color changes with the temperature of the coolant.
5. EVANS Cooling Systems EC53001
The Evans cooling system is a high-performance, waterless coolant that suits the Ford 6.0L Powerstroke. It is also suitable for light-duty diesel engines. It can reach a boiling point of 375°F; it will not evaporate during extreme conditions, which helps it get rid of boilover.
Features
a. Boiling point is above 375°F.
b. It has an extended life span.
c. Antifreeze property protection of below -40°F
d. It gets rid of corrosion and pump cavitation.
Pros
a. Does not have any water, which will eliminate corrosion.
b. Does not generate vapor pressures, which stops coolant loss.
c. It has a high boiling point of 375°F, eliminating boilover and after-boil.
Cons
a. Slightly complicated usage.
6. Engine Ice TYDS008
The engine Ice TYDS008 is a high-performance, non-toxic coolant free of biodegradable phosphate. The coolant is compatible with all vehicles with the 6.0L Powerstroke. It is a premixed coolant that provides superior heat reduction for the engine. It is safe for aluminum and other types of metal, as it contains additives that help protect against corrosion.
Features
1. Boil over the protection of up to 253°F.
2. Freeze temperature protection down to -2°F.
3. Advanced protection against corrosion.
4. OAT technology present
Pros
a. It comes premixed
b. It does not boil over
c. It is environmentally friendly
d. It runs cooler.
Cons
a. It is quite expensive
7. Royal Purple 01600 Purple Ice Super
The royal purple 01600 purple ice super is a premium synthetic radiator coolant additive. It can reduce the 6.0 Powerstroke heat by dropping the radiator fluid surface tension, which allows for better heat transfer. It also prevents deposits from forming in the radiator. It also aids the flow of coolants and lubrication of seals in the water pump.
Features
a. It is a coolant additive.
b. It reduces the surface tension of the coolant.
c. It is compatible with traditional ethylene glycol antifreeze.
d. It should be used in straight water racing applications or antifreeze/water mixtures.
Pros
a. It is compatible with all vehicles, including the 6.0L Powerstroke.
b. It can be used with other coolants.
c. It reduces hot spots in the 6.0L powerstroke.
d. Can be used with water only
e. It does not contain glycol, making it safe for the environment.
Cons
a. It is not premixed and should be mixed with straight water or other coolants.
What to notice to buy antifreeze for 6.0 powerstroke
Before choosing the best antifreeze for 6.0 powerstroke, consider some factors. These factors may include the price of the antifreeze, durability, protection against corrosion, and more. Considering these factors, you will better understand the coolant for Ford 6.0 powerstroke.
Below are factors you should consider before choosing a 6.0 powerstroke antifreeze.
1. Price and affordability
The first factor you should consider is the price of the antifreeze you will buy. Before buying an antifreeze, you should have a budget in mind. It will help you better choose the type of antifreeze that you will be looking for.
If you have a much lower budget, there are quality antifreeze suitable for your 6.0 powerstroke, which will be within your budget.
2. Durability
Consider how long the antifreeze can be used before requiring a change. Most products will indicate the changing interval for the antifreeze in the instructions. If you cannot find it, you could check the reviews online for people’s comments on the product’s durability.
Also, the type of additives provided with the antifreeze product will give you an idea of how long it will last.
3. Boil over and freeze protection
Ensure that you check the boilover and freeze protection. Many antifreeze products offer different types of performance under each weather condition. Some perform better under freezing conditions than in extremely hot conditions.
The environment in which you drive will determine the type of antifreeze you will buy. If it is an extremely cold environment, buy an antifreeze product that does well under extreme cold.
4. Corrosion protection
Another factor you should consider is the antifreeze’s corrosion protection for your vehicle. Although most coolants claim to offer protection against corrosion, you must check the product reviews. Also, consider seeking professional advice.
5. Convenience
Also, consider the convenience factor of the coolant. Some coolant comes premixed, while others must be mixed with distilled water. Concentrated coolants offer flexibility and allow for mixing according to your preference. On the other hand, a premix could be more convenient because all you need to do is pour into the vehicle.
6. Approval
It would be best to consider whether the necessary authorities have approved the coolant. If you are using the Ford 6.0L Powerstroke, consider getting a Ford-approved specified WSS-M97B51-A1 coolant.
FAQ
What color coolant does a 6.0 take?
The color of the engine coolant varies depending on your brand or type of coolant. For instance, the Genuine Ford fluid VC-7-B is a coolant recommended by Ford for the 6.0L engine, and it is a yellow-colored coolant. Also, you can opt for a Genuine Subaru SOA868V9270 Super Coolant, which is also a suitable coolant for the engine and comes in blue.
How much coolant do I need 6.0 Powerstroke?
The 6.0 Powerstroke requires 27.5 quarts of coolant; you could also check the vehicle’s manual to be sure. Most 6.0L powerstrokes come with a 6.875 gallon cooling system capacity. Ensure that when filling the engine with coolant, it is filled to the recommended capacity by the manufacturer. Please do not exceed the recommended capacity, or it could cause serious issues with the cooling system and the engine.
How often should you change the coolant in a 6.0 Powerstroke?
It is recommended that the coolant should be changed in a 6.0L Powerstroke between 30,000 and 45,000 miles or within 2 to 3 years. However, some coolants offer extended life. Depending on the product and vehicle, they can last up to 100,000 miles or even more.
Does a 6.0 Powerstroke have an intercooler?
Yes, the 6.0L Powerstroke has an intercooler designed to decrease the intake temperature and improve the airflow. The intercooler cools the compressed air going into the intake manifold. Cooler air is much denser and can provide more oxygen to aid combustion.
What happens if you put wrong coolant in diesel engine?
Using the wrong engine coolant or bottled water will cause damage to the components of the cooling system. It will gradually cause corrosion in the water pump and radiator. In some cases, using the wrong coolant in a diesel engine could damage parts of the engine, like the cylinder gasket. If the bad coolant is left in the engine, it could lead to more serious issues.
Conclusion
When it comes to choosing the best coolant to use for your 6.0 powerstroke, there are some factors that you need to consider. Remember, the coolant you use will determine how your engine cooling system will generally function. Ensure that the coolant fulfills all the specified requirements provided by your vehicle manufacturer. It is best to use coolant recommended or certified by the manufacturer, like the Genuine Ford fluid VC-7-B recommended for the Ford 6.0L Powerstroke engine.
