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smdk2500

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Just to save a argument. If you want to use it use it. If you don't want to use it don't. I agree with schurkey if the engine is running hot there is another problem. It might be as simple as dirt and other debris plugging the fins. Or plugged internally. Your truck is 29 years old. If it has the OE radiator I would bet there is a combination of both. Also the block may have build up in it causing a lack of proper flow and heat sheading ability. I look at things like this as "snake oil" or a band aid for a underlying problem. As for new trucks needing it and showing a difference I highly doubt it but that is my opinion. Show me actual data showing that it does something. Not what the manufacturer says it does.
 

Supercharged111

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I always run a surfactant in my Camaro, but never do observe an appreciable difference in water temps vs water alone. I figure it at least has to lube the water pump, but on my trucks I simply don't see a point. I don't run them WOT 30 minutes at a crack and as hard as they work pulling they still never get hot enough on a 100 degree day WOT up a hill with the AC cranked for me to give 2 shjts.
 

countryboy17

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I always run a surfactant in my Camaro, but never do observe an appreciable difference in water temps vs water alone. I figure it at least has to lube the water pump, but on my trucks I simply don't see a point. I don't run them WOT 30 minutes at a crack and as hard as they work pulling they still never get hot enough on a 100 degree day WOT up a hill with the AC cranked for me to give 2 shjts.
I’ve been using water wetter in my 2020 duramax to help thing when I haul 15,000lb gooseneck and yes don’t get ur panties in a not we al have a opinion haha

later guys and grits ciao
 

alpinecrick

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Just to save a argument. If you want to use it use it. If you don't want to use it don't. I agree with schurkey if the engine is running hot there is another problem. It might be as simple as dirt and other debris plugging the fins. Or plugged internally. Your truck is 29 years old. If it has the OE radiator I would bet there is a combination of both. Also the block may have build up in it causing a lack of proper flow and heat sheading ability. I look at things like this as "snake oil" or a band aid for a underlying problem. As for new trucks needing it and showing a difference I highly doubt it but that is my opinion. Show me actual data showing that it does something. Not what the manufacturer says it does.
This^^^^

Before magic solutions in a bottle, make sure the system is up to *****......
 

454cid

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I think the cooling additives are meant to optimize, rather than fix an issue. I doubt anyone would see a benefit unless pushing the vehicle, like in racing, or for a truck towing... or possibly in situations where the engine is known for cooling issues due to design, like the 6.2/5 GM diesels. Diesels are also know for cavitation which can eat up metal.....sleeves in some cases, so coolant filters often have additives in them. My questions around Water Wetter would be centered around that, in the OPs situation. otherwise go for it, and see.
 

countryboy17

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I think the cooling additives are meant to optimize, rather than fix an issue. I doubt anyone would see a benefit unless pushing the vehicle, like in racing, or for a truck towing... or possibly in situations where the engine is known for cooling issues due to design, like the 6.2/5 GM diesels. Diesels are also know for cavitation which can eat up metal.....sleeves in some cases, so coolant filters often have additives in them. My questions around Water Wetter would be centered around that, in the OPs situation. otherwise go for it, and see.
Amen brother
 

Erik the Awful

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I think the cooling additives are meant to optimize, rather than fix an issue.
This.

I've known people who used a cheap bottle of dishwasher rinse-aid and swear by it. I've never run any kind of additive, but I'm not against it if the price is right.
 

Schurkey

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I've known people who used a cheap bottle of dishwasher rinse-aid and swear by it.
Whatever kills the surface tension of the coolant, so long as it doesn't screw up water pump seals or coolant hoses, or cause corrosion on any of the metals in the cooling system.

Point being, it shouldn't be needed if the rest of the cooling system is working like it was designed to; and there's nothing wrong with the engine to cause excess heat load.
 
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