anti freeze

P

Pete W.

Member
How long does the rust preventives last in anti freeze using distilled water?
I know there are lots of additives recommended but how long using just the coolant?


Thanks
 
Advise from a respected radiator 'restorer' (RR & other antiques), 5 years under 'normal usage', ie. modern everyday vehicles.

The anti-freeze 'part' lasts longer than the more important anti-corrosion chemistry.

Cheap stuff compared to a cracked block.
 
Inorganic Acid Technology (IAT) anti-freeze (which is what you want for our cars) should be changed out every 36,000 or 3 years. After this it becomes corrosive. This is where some get the idea that anti-freeze will "eat" the solder and brass in our old radiators, and it will eventually if it is not maintained.

But IAT anti-freeze is perfectly safe to use if changed out on a regular basis.

I use Peak anti-freeze with the green cap, formulated for cars manufactured before 1989.
 
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The thing about anti-freeze is foam....Do they still make Sierra? It did not foam, but it even required a special instrument to test concentration.
 
Getting rid of the old antifreeze is a problem. You should not just dump it down the drain. You will have to find a radiator shop that can accept it.

That is the reason for the newer antifreeze. It will last 10 years or longer, meaning there is less used antifreeze to get rid of. The problem with the newer stuff is that it is not really good for our old engines.

if you need to pull the radiator, and the antifreeze if within its used by date, just save the coolant and pour it back in when done.
 
THANK YOU to everyone that responded. I really value your opinions and experience on this forum. Yes, Sierra anti freeze is still available that doesn't foam and I feel best for our non pressurized cooling system and precious paint.. Sold by Ace hardware on the west coast.
 
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