Antifreeze -stupid question

Post by **stuart_k** » Sat Oct 24, 2009 2:27 pm

Is there an easy way to tell if there is antifreeze in my coolant? Will it appear coloured or something? I don't know if the previous owner had any in and as the car is living outside in a dry but cold garage I think it would be prudent to use some over the winter. I'll probably just drain what is there and start from scratch but would save a few pennies if I could tell it was ok already.

Post by **simmitc** » Sat Oct 24, 2009 2:39 pm

The water should be coloured blue or green or yellow or red; but if it's been in the car a long time, then it will probably just be rusty. also, the colour is no guarantee of the amount - different ratios of anti-freeze to water give different amounts of protection. For example, 20% = -5, 50% = -25. It's not a linear scale, and may vary between brands.

It is possible to purchase an anti-freeze tester which is similar to a hydrometer for the battery, and this will indicate the concentration of anti-freeze in the system. Remember that anti-freeze has a finite life, usually quoted at 2, 3, 4, or 5 years - the longer the rating, the more expensive. Add to that, that there are different types and they cannot always be mixed.

Given the variables, I would drain what's in there, flush the entire system, and fill with new materials. You'll get a batter heater for the winder and better cooling for the summer, plus peace of mind.

Lastly, when selecting the quantity of anti-freeze to use, remember that it's not just ambient air temperature to consider, wind-chill can affect radiators as well as people!

Post by **LouiseM** » Sat Oct 24, 2009 2:39 pm

I suppose you could drain some off then put it in the freezer? However even if there is coolant in the system you won't be able to tell how long it has been there for so for the sake of a few pounds I'd drain and refill.

Post by **katy** » Sat Oct 24, 2009 3:50 pm

For a quick test, just dip your finger in the liquid in the top of the radiator and taste it.
Then spit it out and rinse your mouth. Anti-freeze is poison in quantities, but that little bit won't hurt you, especially as you didn't swallow it.
If it tastes sweet then there's anti-freeze in it. How much? Well you'll need a tester to tell you that.
As others have stated, you don't know the age of what's in there, so you're better off replacing it.
The basic ingredient, ethylene-glycol, doesn't deteriorate (unless it's been boiled), but it's the additives that prevent corosion that deplete.
HTH, Ken

Post by **paulk** » Sat Oct 24, 2009 3:58 pm

For a quick test, just dip your finger in the liquid in the top of the radiator and taste it.

But can you tell which Brand it is?

Change it as a matter of course. Then you know how much is in there and when the clock is ticking from.

That reminds me must put some in ours

Drained ours when the heater leaked and due to odd side leaks its currently only water Doh!

Post by **stuart_k** » Sat Oct 24, 2009 4:36 pm

Thanks. I'll just drain and replace for peace of mind then. Better pick up a new hose at the restoration show tomorrow first. Knowing my luck the hose will disintegrate when I take it off.

Post by **bmcecosse** » Sat Oct 24, 2009 4:43 pm

Good idea to carry spares anyway.