Case 431 Correct Coolant Type?

[sgd4270]

Good afternoon, we spent today working on our 1960's Case 431 diesel tractor (SN 8275623) revived which was relatively smooth sailing. However, the tractor has been sitting for a couple years and the radiator is bone dry so we'd like to get some correct coolant before running it for longer than a few seconds.

I was wondering if anyone knew what specific type of coolant is needed for this tractor/engine, and what modern coolant brands/type can be used?

Thanks for any help and comments!

This post was edited by sgd4270 on 07/21/2023 at 03:26 pm.

 

[rustred]

just get the yellow prestone stuff, it says right on the jug for all applications. your overthinking it.

 

[RJKeith]

I would start with distilled water, get it up to temp, and check for leaks. Distilled water cost less than antifreeze and creates no problems if a hose fails or something
leaks. Its just water after all.

 

[r.w.b.]

and after pouring antifreeze in id watch oil level a lot. if it set dry very long the
wet sleeve orings might leak

 

[oldproudvet]

I agree with RJ Keith, as water is the best coolant and if you have a serious problem you aren't out the cost of the antifreeze, plus the bigger issue of cleaning the mess. I'd just use good soft water, and for sure NO WELL WATER, it's full of everything you don't want in a cooling system, like copious amounts of iron and sometimes lime. After the system checks out, stays cool, and before fall switch to 50/50 antifreeze as suggested. Larry