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The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Right Coolant for Your Ford F150
Updated:
First things first, using the right oil and fluid for your Ford F150 is critical. If you don't, you might end up with issues like:
- Warranty void due to component damage
- Longer engine cranking periods
- Increased emission levels
- Reduced engine performance
- Decreased fuel economy
- Weakened brake performance
The Perils of the Wrong Coolant
Imagine you're driving through the beautiful landscapes of USA, and your truck starts acting up because you used the wrong coolant. Not the adventure you had in mind, right? So, let's dive into the correct coolants and fluids for various parts of your Ford F150.
Air Conditioning System
Warning: The AC system has high-pressure refrigerant. It's a job for the pros!
- Refrigerant: 31 oz (0.879 kg)
- Refrigerant Oil: 2.71 fl oz (80 ml)
What to Use:
- Motorcraft® R-134a Refrigerant (YN-19, WSH-M17B19-A)
- Motorcraft® PAG Refrigerant Compressor Oil (YN-12-D, WSH-M1C231-B)
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Automatic Transmission
Only use MERCON® ULV transmission fluid for automatic transmissions. Anything else can harm your transmission.
- Capacity: 13.7 qt (13 L)
What to Use:
- Motorcraft® MERCON® ULV Automatic Transmission Fluid (XT-12-QULV, WSS-M2C949-A)
Engine Coolant
- Capacity: 15.2 qt (14.35 L)
What to Use:
- Motorcraft® Yellow Prediluted Antifreeze/Coolant (VC-13DL-G, WSS-M97B57-A2)
Engine Oil
For engine oil, look for the American Petroleum Institute Certification, specifically SN PLUS 5W30.
- Capacity: 6.0 qt (5.7 L)
What to Use:
- Engine Oil - SAE 5W-30 - Synthetic Blend Motor Oil (XO-5W30-Q1SP, WSS-M2C946-B1)
- For cold climates (-22.0 °F or below): Engine Oil - SAE 0W-30 (WSS-M2C953-B1)
Other Essential Fluids and Materials
- Fuel Tank: Super cab (26.0 gal), Crew cab (36.0 gal)
- Grease: Motorcraft® Premium Long-Life Grease (XG-1-E1, ESA-M1C75-B)
- Hydraulic Brake System: Motorcraft® DOT 4 LV High Performance Motor Vehicle Brake Fluid (PM-20, WSS-M6C65-A2)
- Locks: Motorcraft® Penetrating and Lock Lubricant (XL-1)
- Transfer Case: Motorcraft® MERCON® LV Automatic Transmission Fluid (XT-10-QLVC, WSS-M2C938-A)
- Front Axle (Four wheel drive): Motorcraft® SAE 75W-85 Premium Synthetic Hypoid Gear Lubricant (XY-75W85-QL, WSS-M2C942-A)
- Rear Axle: Motorcraft® SAE 75W-85 Premium Synthetic Hypoid Gear Lubricant (XY-75W85-QL, WSS-M2C942-A)
- Washer Reservoir: Motorcraft® Premium Windshield Wash Concentrate with Bitterant (ZC-32-B2, WSS-M14P19-A)
| System/Component | Capacity/Specification | Recommended Product |
|---|---|---|
| Air Conditioning System | Refrigerant: 31 oz Refrigerant Oil: 2.71 fl oz |
R-134a Refrigerant YN-19 PAG Refrigerant Compressor Oil YN-12-D |
| Automatic Transmission | 13.7 qt | MERCON® ULV Automatic Transmission Fluid XT-12-QULV |
| Engine Coolant | 15.2 qt | Yellow Prediluted Antifreeze/Coolant VC-13DL-G |
| Engine Oil | 6.0 qt | SAE 5W-30 Synthetic Blend Motor Oil XO-5W30-Q1SP |
| Fuel Tank | Super cab: 26.0 gal Crew cab: 36.0 gal |
N/A |
| Hydraulic Brake System | N/A | DOT 4 LV High Performance Motor Vehicle Brake Fluid PM-20 |
| Transfer Case | 1.9 qt | MERCON® LV Automatic Transmission Fluid XT-10-QLVC |
| Front Axle (4WD) | 1.8 qt | SAE 75W-85 Premium Synthetic Hypoid Gear Lubricant XY-75W85-QL |
| Rear Axle | 2.7 qt | SAE 75W-85 Premium Synthetic Hypoid Gear Lubricant XY-75W85-QL |
| Washer Reservoir | Fill as required | Premium Windshield Wash Concentrate with Bitterant ZC-32-B2 |
Conclusion
Choosing the right coolant and other fluids for your Ford F150 is not just about keeping your truck running smoothly; it's about ensuring your journeys, whether in the bustling streets of Nairobi or the serene landscapes of the Maasai Mara, are safe and enjoyable. Remember, using the recommended products is key to maintaining your vehicle's performance and warranty.
Nick Marchenko, PhD
Industrial Engineer & Automotive Content Specialist
Nick writes in-depth guides on car clubs, engine specs, vehicle ownership, and modifications, combining engineering knowledge with automotive passion.
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