Ok, why the red stuff really?

[mavrick1903]

So, I call my local Indy, asking for a price on a timing belt water pump job. ($950) in the asking I ask about which coolant. They say theirs is fully comparable and is guaranteed not to cause issues. They use it in Toyotas all the time I'm told.

Thoughts?

 

[Park]

I've actually heard reports that Toyota's red coolant can deteriorate water pump seals. As far as green coolant, I've used it since I've had my truck. The only things to look out for are that the coolant used is all made by the same company, don't mix coolants. The other thing is to remember to change coolant regularly, green coolant doesnt last nearly as long as red coolant

 

[BlackWorksInc]

I've actually heard reports that Toyota's red coolant can deteriorate water pump seals. As far as green coolant, I've used it since I've had my truck. The only things to look out for are that the coolant used is all made by the same company, don't mix coolants. The other thing is to remember to change coolant regularly, green coolant doesnt last nearly as long as red coolant

This is only true on the older engines like the 22R and early 90's engines. The "red stuff" is Toyota LLC (long life coolant) and it is not the correct coolant for the 4th gen. The correct doesn't is Toyota SLLC (super long life coolant) also known at "Toyota Pink."

Here's some posts I've made regarding why to use Toyota coolant.
http://www.toyota-4runner.org/4th-gen-t4rs/186943-coolant-choice.html#post1903164

http://www.toyota-4runner.org/4th-gen-t4rs/162783-valvoline-extended-life-ok-after-flush.html

 

[JEL]

This is only true on the older engines like the 22R and early 90's engines. The "red stuff" is Toyota LLC (long life coolant) and it is not the correct coolant for the 4th gen. The correct doesn't is Toyota SLLC (super long life coolant) also known at "Toyota Pink."

Here's some posts I've made regarding why to use Toyota coolant.
http://www.toyota-4runner.org/4th-gen-t4rs/186943-coolant-choice.html#post1903164

http://www.toyota-4runner.org/4th-gen-t4rs/162783-valvoline-extended-life-ok-after-flush.html

I thought the '03 came from the factory with red, all other years with pink?

In any case OP, I wouldn't' use anything but OEM Toyota stuff, it's cheap enough to be immaterial over the course of a change and if that shop won't use the right stuff, find another. Just my $.02

 

[bergs]

An equivalent non-OEM color can be used but absolutely do not mix colors. Been using coolant from Sanel Auto without issue.
I learned the hard way in my 4Runner when I mixed in "something that's compatible with everything". Now the next timing belt service it has will include a complete coolant flush and a new radiator

 

[Billynath1988]

For quick reference. After a flush.. How much coolant for the v8 and how much for the v6 so everyone knows how much to order

http://www.amazon.com/Toyota-Genuine-Fluid-00272-SLLC2-Coolant/dp/B004SL8568

 

[T4R2014]

I used to be all for red coolant, but now I just find it annoying. It's more expensive and harder to find in an emergency. I've been using green coolant in various makes and models without any trouble and the majority of shops in my area just use green coolant in most cars.

 

[strathcona]

If you're ordering from Canada, except the lower mainland, you will want to get this blend if it's offered on the site from the above post if you want to stick with OEM.