What Coolant Should I Use for My Engine?
Proper coolant selection is critical to maintaining engine temperature, preventing corrosion, and maximizing the lifespan of your cooling system components. All BluePrint Engines crate engines should be operated with a high-quality coolant mixed according to the coolant manufacturer's recommendations.
Recommended Coolant Types
The following coolant types are approved for use in BluePrint Engines applications:
- Conventional Green Ethylene Glycol Coolant
- HOAT (Hybrid Organic Acid Technology) Coolants
- OAT (Organic Acid Technology) Coolants
- Extended-Life Coolants that are aluminum-compatible
Always follow the coolant manufacturer's mixing and service interval recommendations.
Coolant Recommendations by Engine FamilySmall Block Chevrolet Engines
Including:
- 305
- 327
- 350
- 355
- 383
- 400-based combinations
Recommended Coolant:
- Conventional Green Coolant or equivalent extended-life coolant
- 50/50 mix with distilled water
Big Block Chevrolet Engines
Including:
- 396
- 427
- 454
- 496
- 540
Recommended Coolant:
- Conventional Green Coolant or equivalent extended-life coolant
- 50/50 mix with distilled water
LS Series Engines
Including:
- LS1
- LS2
- LS3
- LS376
- LS427
- LS-based crate engine combinations
Recommended Coolant:
- Dex-Cool® compatible OAT coolant or equivalent
- 50/50 mix with distilled water
Small Block Ford Engines
Including:
- 302
- 306
- 347
- 351W
- 408
- 427W
Recommended Coolant:
- Conventional Green Coolant or equivalent extended-life coolant
- 50/50 mix with distilled water
Ford FE Engines
Including:
- 390
- 427 FE
Recommended Coolant:
- Conventional Green Coolant or equivalent extended-life coolant
- 50/50 mix with distilled water
Chrysler Small Block Engines
Including:
- 318
- 340
- 360
Recommended Coolant:
- Conventional Green Coolant or equivalent extended-life coolant
- 50/50 mix with distilled water
Chrysler Big Block Engines
Including:
- 440 and similar B/RB platform engines
Recommended Coolant:
- Conventional Green Coolant or equivalent extended-life coolant
- 50/50 mix with distilled water
Chrysler Gen III HEMI Engines
Including:
- 5.7L HEMI
- 6.4L HEMI
- 426 HEMI-based Gen III combinations
Recommended Coolant:
- OAT coolant meeting Chrysler specifications
- 50/50 mix with distilled water
Distilled Water Requirement
BluePrint Engines strongly recommends using distilled water when mixing coolant concentrate.
Using tap water may introduce:
- Minerals
- Calcium deposits
- Corrosion-causing contaminants
These contaminants can reduce cooling system efficiency and potentially shorten component life.
Coolants to AvoidDo not use:
Straight water for extended operation
Straight coolant without proper dilution
Coolants contaminated with oil or debris
Coolant mixtures containing incompatible coolant chemistries
Saltwater, well water, or untreated tap waterIf changing coolant types, completely flush the cooling system before refilling.
Cooling System Capacity
Cooling system capacity varies by vehicle, radiator, hose routing, heater core configuration, and accessory package. Always fill and bleed the cooling system according to the vehicle manufacturer's procedures.
Warranty ConsiderationsDamage resulting from improper coolant selection, contaminated coolant, inadequate freeze protection, or neglected cooling system maintenance may not be covered under warranty.
Additional AssistanceIf you have questions regarding coolant compatibility for your specific BluePrint Engines application, contact BluePrint Engines Technical Support before filling or servicing the cooling system.