2017 Ram 2500 Coolant Capacity & Type

The 2017 Ram 2500 coolant capacity varies by engine, but typically holds between 14-18 quarts (13.2-17 liters) of coolant.

Quick Answer

• Total Cooling System Capacity:
  • 6.4L HEMI V8: Approximately 15.5 quarts (14.7 liters)
  • 6.7L Cummins Turbo Diesel: Approximately 17-18 quarts (16-17 liters)
• OEM Coolant Spec: Mopar Antifreeze/Coolant 10 Year/150,000 Mile Formula (Purple OAT, MS-90032)
• Mix Ratio: 50/50 concentrate/distilled water or pre-mixed

Capacity by Engine Option

These capacities include the coolant in the radiator, engine block, heater core, and overflow reservoir.

Flush Interval

Ram recommends a coolant flush and refill for the 2017 Ram 2500 every 10 years or 150,000 miles, whichever comes first, under normal driving conditions. If you frequently tow heavy loads, drive in extreme temperatures, or use your truck for commercial purposes (severe duty), it's wise to consider changing your coolant more frequently, possibly every 5 years or 75,000 miles.

How to Refill & Bleed

After draining the old coolant, refilling and bleeding the system properly is crucial to prevent air pockets that can cause overheating. For the 2017 Ram 2500, follow these general steps, always referring to your service manual for specifics:

1. Drain the System: With the engine cool, place a large drain pan under the radiator draincock (petcock) and open it. Remove the radiator cap to allow the system to drain completely.
2. Flush (Optional but Recommended): Close the draincock. Fill the system with distilled water, run the engine with the heater on high until it reaches operating temperature, then drain. Repeat until the water runs clear. This ensures all old coolant is removed.
3. Refill with Coolant: Close the draincock. Pour the correct Mopar MS-90032 Purple OAT coolant (50/50 mix) into the radiator until it's full. Leave the radiator cap off.
4. Bleed the System:
   • Start the engine and let it idle with the heater on high (fan speed low).
   • As the engine warms up, the thermostat will open, and coolant will begin to circulate. The coolant level in the radiator will likely drop. Continue to top it off as needed.
   • Keep an eye on the temperature gauge to ensure the truck doesn't overheat.
   • For the 6.4L HEMI, there might be specific bleed procedures involving raising the front of the vehicle or using a vacuum fill tool to assist in air removal. Consult your service manual.
   • For the 6.7L Cummins, the system is largely self-bleeding, but running the engine with the radiator cap off and occasionally squeezing the upper and lower radiator hoses can help dislodge air. Some technicians prefer using a vacuum fill tool for the diesel to ensure a complete fill without air pockets.
   • Once the engine reaches operating temperature and the coolant level stabilizes, replace the radiator cap.
5. Final Check: Drive the vehicle, then allow it to cool completely. Check the coolant level in the overflow reservoir and top off if necessary. Monitor the coolant level over the next few days.

Common Cooling System Issues

Owners of the 2017 Ram 2500 may encounter some common cooling system issues typical for this generation of trucks:

• Thermostat Failure: Both the HEMI and Cummins engines can experience thermostat failures, leading to overheating or the engine running too cool. Symptoms include fluctuating temperature gauges, slow warm-up, or the engine overheating on the highway.
• Water Pump Leaks: Water pump seals can eventually wear out, leading to coolant leaks. Puddles under the front of the truck, a disappearing coolant level, or a grinding noise from the pump area can indicate a failing water pump.
• Radiator Leaks: Radiators can develop leaks over time due to corrosion, stone chips, or stress from vibrations. White or colored residue around the radiator fins or a constant need to add coolant are signs of a leak.
• Hose Leaks/Failures: Radiator hoses and heater hoses can degrade, crack, or soften, leading to leaks. Visually inspect hoses for bulges, cracks, or extreme softness.
• Coolant Contamination (Wrong Coolant Type): Using the incorrect coolant type (non-OAT or mixing different chemistries) can lead to gel formation, corrosion, and damage to various cooling system components. This is why using the specified Mopar Purple OAT (MS-90032) is critical.
• For 6.7L Cummins Diesel:
  • EGR Cooler Leaks: A common issue with diesel engines, an EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) cooler can leak coolant internally, leading to white smoke from the exhaust, disappearing coolant, or even major engine damage if coolant enters the combustion chamber.
  • Turbocharger Coolant Lines: The turbocharger often uses coolant for cooling, and these lines can develop leaks.

Find a trusted shop on Repairius.