Could we be a little more specific here? When you all talk about OAT coolant and then mention Dexcool, could you please refer to Dexcool as containing 2EHA? This has been the compound that seems to be the prime suspect in the formation of sludge in coolant systems that have been compromised by air pockets and is also suspected in the degradation of both intake manifold and head gaskets. One thing for everyone to remember is that the companies that manufacture gaskets for GM also supply gaskets to other auto manufacturers. Only difference is the use of Dexcool by GM that contains 2EHA (which has been proven to be a plastisizer-dissolves plastics.) There are other OAT coolants, but they don't all use 2EHA or a slightly different form of 2EHA.
So, could we all quit making generalities and start speaking in specifics? This is why GM got away with Dexcool problems for so long, because nobody truly knew the facts (except GM) and lots of rumours were spread. I think that the evidence shows that mixing Dexcool with other coolants DOES NOT cause it to turn to sludge, but when exposed to air for long periods of time (because of gasket and pressure cap failures) promotes 2EHA to react with cast iron and produce the infamous red sludge.
To address the Wrangler with orange looking antifreeze, I think you can safely assume it is Mopar G-05 antifreeze as the dealer wouldn't change it to Dexcool without good reason and G-05 doesn't usually cause problems. I use Mopar G-05 in all my GM vehicles and I cannot tell the difference visually. If some of you have to use Dexcool because you are afraid that GM might somehow retaliate, could you at least remain neutral in discussions? Your very limited Dexcool experience cannot out-weight the massive amounts of direct evidence of Dexcool inferiority conpared to other very suitable coolants that are available. Remember GM gaskets?....made from same materials that other car companies use - difference? Dexcool !!! Enough said.
So, could we all quit making generalities and start speaking in specifics? This is why GM got away with Dexcool problems for so long, because nobody truly knew the facts (except GM) and lots of rumours were spread. I think that the evidence shows that mixing Dexcool with other coolants DOES NOT cause it to turn to sludge, but when exposed to air for long periods of time (because of gasket and pressure cap failures) promotes 2EHA to react with cast iron and produce the infamous red sludge.
To address the Wrangler with orange looking antifreeze, I think you can safely assume it is Mopar G-05 antifreeze as the dealer wouldn't change it to Dexcool without good reason and G-05 doesn't usually cause problems. I use Mopar G-05 in all my GM vehicles and I cannot tell the difference visually. If some of you have to use Dexcool because you are afraid that GM might somehow retaliate, could you at least remain neutral in discussions? Your very limited Dexcool experience cannot out-weight the massive amounts of direct evidence of Dexcool inferiority conpared to other very suitable coolants that are available. Remember GM gaskets?....made from same materials that other car companies use - difference? Dexcool !!! Enough said.
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