blew radiator hose

[2StrokeDiesel]

I blew a radiator hose and lost all the fluid. Do i use distilled water, 50/50 mix with the antifreeze? Or should I use plain tap water.

[77newell]

You need to refill with a 50/50 mix of antifreeze formulated with SCAs (supplemental cooling additives) designed for diesel engines otherwise your engine will self-destruct from the inside out. The additives prevent, among other things) pitting from occurring on the outside of the cylinder sleeves. DO NOT use plain water of any kind unless mixed with the appropriate antifreeze with SCAs, and then use only de-ionized or distilled water to minimize solids present in ordinary water sources.

[Gimpy]

Use distilled water. Minerals and other contaminants in tap water are not good for the system.

[NewellCrazy]

While you can use most heavy-duty coolants, it must meet specs.

Water quality requirements:
Calcium/Magnesium Max. 170ppm as CaCO3+MgCO3
Chloride Max. 40ppm as CL
Sulfur Max. 100ppm as SO4

Use of tap water is ok as long as it meets the above requirements or you can use distilled water. Pre-formulated antifreeze, such as Fleetguard Compleat provides high quality water and the correct chemical balance.

Good luck

[Chester B. Stone, Jr.]

Detroit and Cummins dealers should carry what you need.

[2StrokeDiesel]

Thanks guys. That's what I thought but had an "expert" tell me not to use Distilled water.

[chockwald]

If, as your username implies, you have a 2 stroke Detroit Diesel you should consider using Detroit Diesel's coolant....Super Cool. It is formulated for their engines. I use it cut 50/50 with distilled water. Costs about $20/gallon uncut, so end cost is around $11 cut 50/50 with distilled water, which is quite cheap.

[2StrokeDiesel]

Thanks Clarke I will consider using what you've recommended.