Coolant - Should I use it?

[David53]

Given that my Minor was designed to use water only in the radiator in 1953 what is the consensus of opinion as regards coolant - should I use it?

Not needed for anti-freeze as our climate here in Sydney doesnt get cold enough to freeze the water. So if not needed for anti freeze purposes is there an advantage to use a coolant in the system?

[bmcecosse]

Supposedly stops corrosion - but I haven't had any in my car for 10 years now. Doesn't go out in winter! If the same water stays in the system - it will soon lose any dissolved oxygen - and should become neutral. Test it with Litmus paper ? But I'm sure plenty others will come on and say - yes, you must use it! Won't do any harm to add say a pint of anti-freeze.

[mike.perry]

If you have any alloy parts on your engine, such as the thermostat housing then an anti corrosion additive will prevent it from rotting.
On later side valve engine there is an alloy thermostat housing and water jacket, and, if a water pump is fitted, then an alloy block drain tap housing as well. It is important that an anti corrosion additive is used in these engines as replacement spares are beginning to be in short supply.

[Longdog]

Another good tip if you have hard water is to use rain water in the system as hard water (limescale) crystals wreck water pump seals.