Zerex G-05 = MB Coolant = Mopar HOAT?
 

Reading thru the text article recommended for new '87 300D owners, I came across the paragraph discussing coolant. The author stated that the MB coolant would be yellowish or clear, and that the aftermarket equivalent was Zerex G-05.

For my '05 Jeep CRD, factory fill is Mopar HOAT. Doing some checking, it seems both Ford and DC went with the HOAT type antifreeze. Difference is, factory fill in Ford's is a yellowish tint, and DC has their factory fill dyed pink. And here as well, Zerex G-05 is listed as the aftermarket equivalent.

If Zerex G-05 is listed as the aftermarket equivalent in both cases, that seems to indicate that both the '87 300D and '05 CRD use a HOAT type coolant ('05 Jeep CRD is a diesel for those that don't know).

If that's the case, that Ford, DC, and MB are using the same HOAT formula, would that mean you would be able to use either Zerex G-05, MB factory fill, Ford factory fill, or Mopar HOAT in the '87 300D?

That would greatly simplify things, being able to use the same antifreeze for both diesels. Matter of fact, I already have a 1 gallon jug of full strength Mopar HOAT on hand just in case the CRD needs topping off.

As far as I can remember the back of the Zerex container says it is a direct replacement for '02 and up fords, '01 (or so) DC, and all Mercedes.

Next question would be, where in the bloody h### can you buy Zerex antifreeze? None of the auto stores locally seem to carry it any more, just Prestone. Certainly don't feel like paying thru the nose at a CJD or (god forbid) Ford dealership.

Try NAPA.

NAPA carries g-05. but m-b coolant is not a HOAT type coolant. if you want to make things simple, refill everything with zerex. i plan on doing the wifes LHS when i do the benz.

heres a thread to read.
http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/diesel-discussion/115780-startuned-article-mercedes-antifreeze-must-read.html

The local kragen stocks up on zerex, one time it was even on sale with a coupon for $5.99 a jug. Otherwise i think the MB dealer wont charge you too much on it....but then again it is a dealer!

Nearest MB dealer is close to 40 miles away.

There is a NAPA in Mooresville. Get it there.

Tom

Pep boys also carries the Zerex.

I would say yes, based on the following FAQ info from the Zerex web page (http://www.valvoline.com/pages/products/product_detail.asp?product=10, click on FAQ at the left side).

What vehicles use Zerex G-05 in the factory fill and what is the dye color?
1984 Mercedes and beyond (light yellow)
1990 Deere and Company vehicles and beyond (green)
2001 Chrysler, Dodge, and Jeep and beyond (orange)
2002 Ford, Lincoln and Mercury trucks and SUVS and beyond (yellow)
2003 Ford, Lincoln, and Mercury automobiles and beyond (yellow)

What aftermarket products are approved by Ford and Chrysler?
Ford, Lincoln, Mercury brands - Ford Motorcraft Gold and Zerex G-05
Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep brands –Mopar 5/100 Antifreeze and Zerex G-05

What is the difference between these products?
All products use the Zerex G-05 formulation. The only difference is the dye color.

I looked into this a few months ago when changing my coolant. I think I spent 2 hours doing research trying to save $5.00 :) but in the end MB coolant from the MB dealer was the same price as Zerex / Ford / Mopar coolant, so I just went with the MB stuff.