I will be installing a new DeWitt direct fit aluminum radiator in a 66. Should I get as much of the old coolant out as possible from the block? What brand coolant works best with aluminum? I assume a 50/50 mix is appropriate.
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Re: Proper Coolant for a new DeWitt Aluminum
Dennis, you can get rid of virtually all of the old coolant in your block by pulling the block drain plugs at the bottom of your block and flushing the block thoroughly. These plugs (5/8" iirc) are located at the bottom of the block, on each side just above the oil pan, and approximately centered in the block. THere was a lot of discussion on this board in the past and there were some who did not like the new Dexcool brand of antifreeze and insisted that the "old fashioned" green stuff was better for the aluminum in your radiator. Since you should change out your coolant every two years anyhow, the benefits of Dexcool and other extended life coolants may not be realized in your application.
Before you attempt to remove the drain plugs, try a little PB Blaster penetrating solvent and let it work for a day or two. You may find a bit of resistance on the plug, especially if it has never been removed.
Gary -
Re: Proper Coolant for a new DeWitt Aluminum
Dennis,
I had this same question earlier, and Tom DeWitt recommended staying with the "green stuff" if that is what had previously been in the system. He suggested using Dexcool only if the cooling system components were fresh and not "contaminated" by the "green stuff" (I'm paraphrasing here). He suggested that just about any quality antifreeze would work and did not favor one brand over another.
Given that there is debate over the advantages of Dexcool, why not just say you're a purist and go with "original" style antifreeze? Less work involved anyway.
BruceComment
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Re: Proper Coolant for a new DeWitt Aluminum
Dennis
I use Fleetgaurd complete in my 69, and my pick-up as well .It is premixed and also has water pump lube along with chemicals to prevent electrolysis it is approved by all the diesel engine manufacturers.In my opinion this is the best way to go.it is supposed to be good for a 150,000 miles, not that we would ever do that much on an old vette.I think the price is right, about7-8 bucks a gallon.
TomComment
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Re: Additive?
Gents,
If memory serves me correctly, in the old days, GM had a special additive that was used in autos that had aluminum radiators. Anyone have a memory better than mine?
Regards,
GeneComment
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My 1 cent worth...
Instead of tap water, use distilled H2O, when mixing w/anti-freeze. That should eliminate any local water minerals/etc... DCComment
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Re: My 1 cent worth...
At the Chevy dealer where I work the big thing is the PH on all the newer cars . I have seen intakes & heads with holes ate through them . I work in the body shop so I dont know to much about what the correct numbers should be ,but the oil change guys check it on every car.There is an additive to correct it . BillComment
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Re: My 1 cent worth...
This is just another reason I use Fleetguard Complete, it is approved by all diesel engine manufacturer's including G.M.and will not harm any aluminum parts.A lot of big rigs use aluminum to cut down on wieght.Some of these radiators run way up in the thousands so i'm sure fleet guard doesn't want to buy many of these. The water they use is demineralized so you don't have to worry abouthat part either,all you have to do is run this stuff straight, no water to add.
TomComment
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