I have a 2005 ram 1500 4x4, tow package, 5.7. I need to replace my thermostat.

How can I be sure of what type of coolant to add? HOAT or no HOAT?
How can you tell what was put in it from the factory?

thanks

 

HOAT was put in from the factory. I flushed mine a long time ago and used Prestone. Its cheaper and I have had zero issues. I understand HOAT comes with the truck but its hard to find (unless you go to the dealer) and more costly.

 

Any name brand coolant that states it can be added to any color (type) of coolant is fine to top it off.
You can even catch the little bit of coolant you lose during a t-stat swap in a small container and put it back in.
If you have everything at the ready and swap it pretty quick, you should only lose a minimal amount anyway...

 

my concern is the manual states that you can only mix HOAT with HOAT. So it reads like i cant add to any color type coolant.

I need some more info.

 

I dunno, I've topped mine off a time or two, still running the stock coolant because it keeps checking out at 100% and even though my truck is going on seven years old, I haven't hit 50k miles yet.
For the little bit I've put in to top it off over the years, I don't think I've added a quarter jug total.
I did pour in a bottle of Purple Ice about two years ago and even had to siphon out the 16oz. from the radiator to add it.

It's up to you, you can't go wrong putting in the HOAT, I just don't think for the half cup or so you lose during a t-stat swap that it's necessary...

 

Thats why I read also so when I changed my coolant I flushed everything to be sure.

 

thanks!

 

BYW- which HOAT product can I use to top off the coolant?

I read zerex G-05.

 

You're going to lose so little coolant, you might as well just top it off with water and save a few bucks.

 

Agreeing w/Weed, 'PreStone' states 'All Makes, All models' on the container label's top, "with any color"'. That tells me it good to go with all late goats.
Prestone would NOT print this claim w/o subjecting their butts to massive litigation.

Mine is approaching six yo and it should have been refreshed three years ago by average chg schedules. I'm stocking up from wallyWorld and when the weather breaks the juice is getting changed.
http://www.prestone.com/choose?next=motor