I have an 04 FX4 5.4 and I am about to flush the cooling system. The manufacturer called for the Motorcraft Orange Antifreeze. My question is is it absolutely necessary to use it as opposed to Zerex or another top line antifreeze? If I have to go back to the dealer it is 22.50 for a gallon.
I don't want to damage the system so if I have to I will buy the product from the dealer.

 

Spend $20 and become a Amsoil dealer....Buy the Amsoil A/F for 28.60 per/gal and never worry about the A/F for the rest of the trucks life...I use it in mine..Great Stuff. Also with the dealership subscription, you get a break on all their products...just a thought

 

No it is not necessary to use the expensive coolant. A 50/50 mixture of a brand name antifreeze will work just fine.

 

Didn't it come with the "Gold" extra long life coolant? I know Ford is supposed to be going to the "Orange" (don't have any idea why), but GM has used it for years and the experience I've had with it I wouldn't use it again if they gave me a lifetime supply of it. Worked for a large Gov. Trans agency for a # of years and that stuff rotted radiators out like you couldn't believe. I used it in 2 different vehicles I bought new and when I bought the '99 F-150 the manual said specifically NOT to use the ORANGE! By then I understood why and had no intension of using it. Zerex made the "Gold" for Ford and you got the same thing from Zerex, just a little darker color.