Can i use regular yellow/green antifreeze in an engine that has a composite intake manifold?

Question

I want to change the antifreeze in my 2000 Mustang GT with a 4.6 and i'm sure the owners manual says to use Ford type coolant but i know thats not the only stuff out there i can use.Is regular antifreeze such as Zerex,Prestone etc etc able to be used in this vehicle? Will it hurt the plastic/composite type intake manifold?I'm not sure whats in it now but it looks nasty!Any input would be great.Thanks.

Will the yellow/green type antifreeze hurt a composite intake manifold!?!!?

Answer 1

The "universal" anti-freeze won't damage the composite components in any way.
BUT you should know that the manufacturer has designed the engine and cooling components to work especially well with the recommended coolant. This recommendation covers things such as electrolysis, lubricity, coolant life, heat exchange and corrosion inhibitors, to name just a few requirements.
With such an expensive investment, why "cheap out" on something that you only need to change as often as 2 years. This could have grave consequences as the car ages, such as radiator and heater core damage.

Answer 2

The reason that they say to use Ford type coolant cuz it will be antifreeze with the oils in it. In otherwords, DONT BUY the generic cheap stuff. Using brand names like Prestone are always ok, cuz they do not skimp on anything. Brand name, good stuff, good price. But people have a tendency to buy the cheap stuff and THAT is where you get in trouble.

Answer 3

This is kind of off the subject, but make sure the front cooler passage is made out of aluminum, if it isn't, get it replaced. The composite manifolds crack and the coolant will leak out causing the engine to overheat.

Answer 4

hay ya wat he said. i have a 82 mustange i race on track i hav regular cooler in it. or try askin a local ford dealer.