2017 Peterbilt 389 Coolant Capacity & Type
A comprehensive guide to coolant maintenance for your heavy-duty Peterbilt 389.
AI-generated reference. Always verify torque values, fluid capacities, intervals, and procedures against the manufacturer's service manual or OEM repair information before performing work. Repairius is not liable for damage from acting on this content without verification.
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The 2017 Peterbilt 389's coolant capacity varies depending on the engine configuration, but typically ranges from 40 to 70 quarts (approximately 38 to 66 liters).
Quick Answer
- Total Cooling System Capacity: 40-70 quarts (38-66 Liters) depending on engine and cooling system configuration.
- OEM Coolant Spec: Predominantly uses an Organic Acid Technology (OAT) or Hybrid Organic Acid Technology (HOAT) coolant, often a heavy-duty extended life coolant (ELC) meeting standards like ASTM D6210 or TMC RP-329. Refer to your owner's manual for the specific PACCAR or Cummins coolant specification for your installed engine.
- Coolant Color: Typically red, purple, or sometimes blue, depending on the specific ELC product and manufacturer.
- Mix Ratio: Typically a 50/50 pre-mix, or a 50/50 concentrate mixed with distilled water.
Capacity by Engine Option
The Peterbilt 389 was available with several engine options in 2017, predominantly PACCAR MX-13 and various Cummins ISX/X15 engines. Cooling system capacity can vary significantly based on the engine, radiator size, and whether an auxiliary cooler or heating system is installed. Always consult your specific vehicle's owner's manual or the engine manufacturer's specifications for the precise capacity.
| Engine Type | Approximate Capacity (Quarts) | Approximate Capacity (Liters) |
|---|---|---|
| PACCAR MX-13 | 50-60 | 47-57 |
| Cummins ISX/X15 | 60-70 | 57-66 |
| Other (e.g., older Cummins) | 40-50 | 38-47 |
Flush Interval
For heavy-duty trucks like the Peterbilt 389, adherence to coolant flush intervals is critical due to the demanding operating conditions. Using an Extended Life Coolant (ELC) is standard.
- Normal Duty: Typically 600,000 miles, 12,000 hours, or 6 years, whichever comes first, for most heavy-duty ELCs. This often includes a coolant filter change at these intervals, and testing of the coolant
More specs for the 2017 Peterbilt 389
Oil Capacity & Filter
Capacity, weight, filter PN, drain plug torque, change interval.
Fluid Type Specs
Engine oil, coolant, ATF, diff, brake, PS, DEF — with OEM spec numbers.
Transmission Fluid & Service
Trans model, fluid spec, capacity, filter PN, service interval.
Torque Specifications
Lug nuts, drain plug, caliper, axle nut, plug, key fasteners.
Brake Pad & Rotor Specs
Pad PNs, rotor size, min thickness, caliper torque.
Tire Size & Pressure
OEM size, cold psi, bolt pattern, wheel size, TPMS.
Battery Size & Group
Group size, CCA, AGM/flooded, dimensions, reset note.
A/C Refrigerant & Oil
R-134a or R-1234yf, charge oz, PAG oil spec.
Bulb Sizes (Headlight, Tail, Fog)
Headlight, fog, tail, turn, reverse, interior.
Factory Maintenance Schedule
Service intervals by mileage, severe-duty notes, known issues.
Towing Capacity & Payload
Max tow, payload, GVWR/GCWR, hitch class by trim.
Fuse Box Diagram & Amperage
Fuse box locations, layout, amps, and what each fuse controls.
Serpentine Belt Routing & Length
Belt routing, length, rib count, OEM + aftermarket PNs.
Wheel Alignment Specifications
Camber, caster, toe ranges (front & rear), adjustability notes.
Paint Color Codes
All factory colors with paint codes, sticker location, touch-up tips.
Wiper Blade Sizes
Driver/passenger/rear blade size, attachment, OEM + cross-refs.
Spark Plug Type & Gap
Plug PN, gap, torque, interval by engine.
Transmission & Axle Gear Ratios
Trans gear ratios, axle ratios, RPO codes, tow vs MPG impact.
Key Fob Programming
DIY programming steps, FCC ID, fob PN, battery, transponder.
Same spec — other model years
Maintenance & repair guides
2017 Peterbilt 389 Maintenance Schedule →
Available maintenance guidance; confirm the manufacturer schedule.
Repair planning references →
Plan the scope of work; detailed procedures need configuration-matched evidence.
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