Best Coolant for Diesel Tractor: Tractor Coolant for All Farmers! (2023 Reviews)

Overheating your tractor engine will negatively affect tractor performance and even damage other components. So, you need an engine coolant to prevent other issues and keep your diesel engines optimal. But how to select the best engine coolant?

Read our guide below to find the best coolant for diesel tractor and their main benefits. Then, we will answer all your questions.

Take away key points:

  • Coolants are obligatory to keep the machinery well protected
  • They will provide a longer lifespan and keep it optimal for all tasks
  • Find the best solution in our reviews

Best engine coolant for diesel tractors: All you need to know

If you need to know more about engine coolant types for diesel engines and your tractors, read the guidelines below. You will have a better insight into the topic.

What is an extended-life coolant?

antifreeze for diesel tractors

Engine coolant for diesel tractors is a fluid that keeps the engine from overheating. It circulates through the engine and absorbs heat, which is then dissipated by the radiator.

The coolant also helps protect against corrosion and freezing temperatures. Different types of coolants are available depending on the diesel engine type, such as conventional green coolants or extended-life coolants with special additives for wet-sleeve engines.

What is antifreeze for diesel tractors used for?

Antifreeze for diesel tractors is used to protect the engine from corrosion and cylinder liner cavitation pitting. It also helps to regulate engine temperature and prevent freezing in cold weather.

Different types of antifreeze are available, including ethylene glycol-based and propylene glycol-based coolants, as well as fully formulated summer coolants and winter antifreeze.

Are engine coolants for tractors mandatory?

Yes, engine coolants for tractors are mandatory. Engine coolants help protect the tractor’s engine from corrosion and overheating, leading to costly repairs or even complete engine failure. Coolants also help keep the tractor running at optimal performance levels.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of diesel tractor engine coolants?

tractor coolant

The advantages include:

– Ability to protect against corrosion, cavitation pitting, and freezing temperatures

– Reduce wear on the engine and provide better lubrication for the parts. 

– Extend the life of your engine by helping it run more efficiently.

The disadvantages include:

– Expensive compared to conventional coolants.

– Some types require regular maintenance, such as flushing and refilling, to remain effective.

– If not used correctly or appropriately maintained, coolants can cause damage to the internal components of your engine.

Best extended life coolants for heavy-duty diesel engines 2023

We have reviewed some of the best engine coolants to keep your diesel engine optimal. Choose the best diesel antifreeze model for the longer life of your tractor components and engines.

$Mopar 68163849AB 10 Year/150,000 Mile Coolant – Best cooling system for your diesel engine and other components. The engine coolant prevents the engine block, and the fine additives keep the engine optimal for further use.

$Valvoline Multi-Vehicle 50/50 Prediluted Ready-to-Use Antifreeze/Coolant – Ideal for heat transfer and antifreeze system for various temperatures and weather conditions. The formula includes a test kit to ensure the security of use. But, it has certain cap issues.

$Zerex Original Green Low Silicate 50/50 Prediluted Ready-to-Use Antifreeze/Coolant – Best for radiator and engine system protection, ensuring the long life of all parts and elements. The heat transfer will also prevent boiling temperatures.

$John Deere Genuine OEM 1 Gallon Cool – Best radiator protection, keeping your engine mechanism optimal, preventing accidents and damage. The coolant prevents wet sleeves and ensures better working conditions for tractors. Yet, the newer canisters do not have leaking caps.

$Triax All Fleet ELC Coolant & Antifreeze – The most versatile coolant for multiple engines and different uses. The mixture is possible to use with tap water, and the content offers premium-quality applications.

$PEAK Final Charge Global Coolant/Antifreeze – Best quality and value of the coolant and antifreeze. There is no need for SCAs and similar additives, as technology offers advanced protection for an extended period. The coolant will last longer and ensure the best working standards.

#1. Mopar 68163849AB 10 Year/150,000 Mile Coolant – Best extended life coolant

  • Brand: Moapr
  • Engine coolant amount: 1 gallon
  • Weight: 9.24 pounds
  • Best for: organic acid technology & ethylene glycol

The Mopar tractor supply component is an ideal choice for your engine needs. The engine coolant contains a mixture of antifreeze and heavy-duty coolant to keep your cooling system optimal.

The mixture is 50-50 antifreeze and coolant, so it will fully prevent engine overheating, making it ideal for advanced corrosion protection and extended life of your machines. In addition, the coolant is perfect for higher working hours and ten years of use, up to 150,000 miles.

The liquid comes in a one-gallon amount without any additives or harmful chemicals that might damage the aluminum parts or damage your heavy-duty engine.

The ethylene glycol and organic acid technology will prevent the freezing point and prevent the engine block. So it will keep your engines optimal for extended life and better operations. Do not add water or other additives.

In addition, you cannot mix the engine coolant with any non-conforming antifreeze, as the OAT coolants are developed for the new vehicle technology. Industry experts perform different test strips for heavy-duty engines to keep them optimal for other use.

Finally, the OAT coolants are affordable, so they’re available to all tractor owners.

Pros
  • no chemicals
  • easy maintenance
  • test strips
  • against corrosion
Cons
  • /

#2. Valvoline Multi-Vehicle 50/50 Prediluted Ready-to-Use Antifreeze/Coolant – Best additive against cavitation

  • Brand: Valvoline
  • Engine coolant amount: 1 gallon
  • Weight: 9 pounds
  • Best for: corrosion inhibitors

The Valvoline engine coolant and antifreeze mixture will wow you due to its overall use and performance. The use type is universal, so it’s also ideal for an auto parts store, tractor, and other types of vehicles and engines.

The engine coolant prevents rust, corrosion, and scaling while optimizing the cooling system metals and aluminum parts. In addition, the cooling system will ensure the diesel engine is working at the allowed temperature, and there won’t be hot spots to damage the radiator system and overheat the engine.

The extended-life engine coolant is also ideal for organic acid, propylene glycol, ethylene glycol, and other corrosion inhibitors to protect your cylinder liners from liner pitting and cavitation damage.

The high-quality liquid additive also prevents the leak and will not damage metal, plastic, hoses, gaskets, and the overall vehicle finish. The maintenance is also easy to ensure the regular cycle repeats at regular temperatures.

The engine coolant/antifreeze uses a yellow concentrate formula. Mix it with distilled water or clean water, and it works properly with freezing temperatures of -34F and boiling temperatures of +265F.

Pros
  • corrosion inhibitors
  • IAT coolants
  • fine with aluminum, metal, and plastic parts
  • boiling and freezing temperatures
Cons
  • cap issues

#3. Zerex Original Green Low Silicate 50/50 Prediluted Ready-to-Use Antifreeze/Coolant – Best heat transfer

  • Brand: Zerex
  • Engine coolant amount: 1 gallon
  • Weight: 9 pounds
  • Best for: radiator protection

The Zerex diesel engine coolant is one of the best long-life coolants available! Thanks to its IAT additive technology, the Zerex diesel engine coolant keeps the radiator system and its parts from freezing, boiling, corrosion, leaking, and other damage. So, it keeps the engine optimal and keeps it cooled down.

The liquid additives contain a 50-50 mix of engine coolant and antifreeze, so you don’t need to use other antifreeze types for the long life of your inner elements. The parts will stay clean and well-working the moment you start the engine.

The nitrite-free liquid mix is also valuable for the complete system flush or radiator topping. You can easily finish the job, and the nitrite-free additive mix will not damage aluminum and other parts so soon. So, it ensures the long life of all elements.

You will prevent heat and boiling temperatures, but also freezing points, as you can inject the required amount of the coolant into your engine, and the heat transfer will be instant for optimal work and more robust use.

The additives will prevent your engine from corrosion and rust, so your diesel tractor can well manage for heavy-duty and lighter tasks.

Pros
  • heat transfer
  • radiator protection
  • IAT additive mixture
Cons
  • not visible

#4. John Deere Genuine OEM 1 Gallon Cool – Best shock wave protection

  • Brand: John Deere
  • Engine coolant amount: 1 gallon
  • Weight: 9.22 pounds
  • Best for: the correct air intake

The John Deere diesel engine coolant and antifreeze mixture is a perfect solution for your needs, thanks to its components. The diesel engine coolant comes in already mixed. So do not add clean water, as you can damage the mixture.

The John Deere coolant contains organic acid, propylene glycol, and similar organic additives to ensure the heat and freezing won’t damage your engines and the radiator systems.

The green and yellow OEM coolant also prevents trapped air and minimizes pressure while injected into your engine system. This way, the coolant prevents shock waves and optimizes the inner parts for more robust uses.

In addition to radiator and heat protection, the green and yellow OEM coolant also prevents your machine from rust, dirt, corrosion, and other damage. So you don’t need to replace the parts, and the coolant is easily manageable.

Due to its versatility, you may also apply the John Deere OEM coolant to the gas engine and similar engines if possible. But first, check with your dealer before further use. Although many parts are available through dealer networks, be careful not to damage them.

Pros
  • reduces air
  • radiator protection
  • propylene glycol
Cons
  • new containers lack caps

#5. Triax All Fleet ELC Coolant & Antifreeze – Best versatility

  • Brand: TRIAX
  • Engine coolant amount: 1 gallon
  • Weight: 9.72 pounds
  • Best for: all machines and engines

Why should you choose the Triax coolant & antifreeze system? The Triax model is versatile and multifunctional for different uses, so you can easily apply it on various vehicles.

The coolant is ideal for every diesel engine, including tractors, semi-trucks, and similar vehicles. It also offers full metal compatibility. So you can use it for a copper radiator, cast iron, steel, solder, aluminum, stainless steel, and other radiator types. In addition, the coolant will protect them better from damage and temperatures.

The coolant doesn’t require additional SCA boosters, providing one million miles and more than 20,000 hours. So, it will ensure a lifespan of more than eight years for your machines.

Among heat transfer features, the coolant also serves well for corrosion inhibition. As a result, your cooling mechanism will be safe and well-protected, and you can use the machines for an extended period.

The coolant contains the MOLYBDATE – a heavy-duty cylinder liner protection. It prevents cavitation and other harm, keeping your machines optimal. Thus, it ensures the full duration of the machine’s lifespan. Thanks to its content, the coolant is compatible with all antifreeze colors. The OEM content only increases its overall quality.

Pros
  • Powerstroke
  • radiator protection
  • nitrate-free
  • versatile
Cons
  • /

#6. PEAK Final Charge Global Coolant/Antifreeze – Best quality

  • Brand: ‎PEAK/HERCLNR
  • Engine coolant amount: 1 gallon
  • Weight: 9.3 pounds
  • Best for: quality

Finally last but not least, the PEAK coolant system liquid is reliable and ready for instant use for its overall quality.

The Final Charge coolant should be your #1 option for all engine types – diesel, gasoline, natural gas, and similar engine cooling mechanisms. Thanks to its protection content, the coolant will prevent damage to all heavy and light-duty on and off-road engine performances.

Since the coolant uses heavy-duty content and ingredients, it will give your machines more working hours and longer lives. Thus, the OAT formula provides 600,000 miles of protection, on-road use, and between 300,000 and 400,000 miles of off-road use. The average use is between 6,000 and 12,000 hours or 3-6 years in both uses.

The OAT formula contains all-natural ingredients, so you don’t need to apply extra SCAs – Supplemental Coolant Additives. Thus, you can protect your machines fully and ensure their lifespan lasts for an extended time.

The coolant will protect your machinery from corrosion, heat, boiling temperatures, freezing external and weather conditions, and similar forces. So, you can rest assured nothing can damage your equipment. Plus, one gallon will last for a prolonged time.

Pros
  • quality
  • value
  • protection
  • durable
Cons
  • /

Choosing the best engine coolant for the best cooling system: Buyer’s guide

Look below for the key factors to consider and choose the best coolant.

1. Types

Choose a coolant specifically designed for diesel engines, as they require an additive package that protects against corrosion and cylinder liner cavitation pitting.

2. Protection

the best engine coolant for the best cooling system

The most common type of antifreeze used in diesel engines is ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, which contains SCAs (supplemental cooling additives) to prevent cavitation.

Another type of glycol-based antifreeze is propylene glycol, which is not quite as effective but still provides protection.

For older engine models, apply IAT coolants for their universal, light-duty uses.

High-powered modern tractors use different extended-life or long-life coolants.

3. Follow instructions

Always refer to the manual on applying the right product for your needs to avoid damage to the internal systems of your machines. You will know how to add or change the coolants and ensure the engines are optimal.

FAQs

Can you use car antifreeze in a tractor?

Yes, you can use car antifreeze in a tractor. However, note that the type of antifreeze used should be appropriate for the engine type and model of the tractor.

Can you put regular antifreeze in a diesel tractor?

Yes, you can put regular antifreeze in a diesel tractor. Use an ethylene glycolor or propylene glycol-based conventional coolant (green) for antique tractor engines and Extended or Long Life Coolants for high-power modern tractors.

How much coolant does a tractor take?

Generally, the cooling system holds around 14.5 liters, so about 7 liters of antifreeze and 7 liters of water are recommended for a 50/50 mix.

Can you put antifreeze in tractor tires?

Yes, you can put antifreeze in tractor tires. However, mixing at least a 50/50% ratio of water and antifreeze in your tires is recommended. 

What type of coolant does a Kubota tractor use?

Kubota tractors use the Ethylene Glycol-based phosphate coolant, certified for Kubota engines. This formula has unique characteristics that provide excellent protection against corrosion and freezing.

So, what is the best coolant out there?

The final winner of the best coolant for diesel tractor is the Mopar 68163849AB 10 Year/150,000 Mile Coolant. The model provides the ultimate protection and the longest lifespan of machines and engines. It also comes mixed, so you don’t need extra additional components to use it.

Mopar 10 Year/150,000 Mile Coolant 50/50 Premixed*
  • Package Weight: 4.227 kg
  • Product Type: Auto Part
  • Package Quantity: 1
  • No Batteries Required
  • Embittered - Contains Bittering Agent

Conclusion

The coolants are mandatory for optimal tractor performance and engine protection. In addition, they will provide a longer lifespan for your machinery. So, once you pick your best solution, let us know.

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Ben Bareja

Ben Bareja, the owner-founder-webmaster of CropsReview.com. This website was conceptualized primarily to serve as an e-library for reference purposes on the principles and practices in crop science, including basic botany. Read more here

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