Date: Thu, 13 May 1999 09:54:39 -0700 From: "Justin VanAbrahams" <jvanabranopsamel.net> Subject: Re: Antifreeze 50% water question?
DamonP228 <damonp228nopsamcom> wrote in message news:19990511212307.22075.00000731nopsam.aol.com... > I know this may sound silly but in the Bently manual they suggest that you put > a 50- 50 soultion of antifreeze to water. If you buy Prestone or any other > aftermarket antifreeze does this split still apply. If you put all antifreeze > does it have any affect on the cooling of the car? I have a 1988 900s and it > seems as though my temp gauge is usually in the upper third of the gauge, its > still in the green but just a tad too close to the red zone for my taste. Are > there any potential problems with the mix? > > Thanks in advance > dp The green stuff you buy at the auto parts store ("Coolant/Antifreeze") is not actually coolant at all. The green stuff is designed for two basic purposes: o Inhibiting Mineral Deposits o Providing Anti-Freeze Protection It does NOT offer any cooling capabilities, and in reality is actually less heat conductive than normal tap water. By running a cooling solution biased in favor of antifreeze (i.e. more antifreeze than water) you are depriving your car of its cooling potential. On a Saab, I suggest running no more than 40% antifreeze unless you live in a particularly cold environment. Living in California where the temp rarely gets to or below freezing, I run all my Saabs with about 70% water and 30% antifreeze. Since I live in an area with really hard water, I try to use distilled water whenever possible - as it is mineral free - which helps keep the cooling system clean and clear, and actually can extend the life of the water pump. If you find your car is running hotter than you'd like (most Saab 900s run between 30% and 50% of the gauge under normal conditions) I'd suggest either replacing your thermostat with a lower temp one, or trying some of Redline's Water Wetter. Water Wetter is a liquid additives that offers heat conductance superior to that of water, meaning it's REALLY effective. it's not a guaranteed fix, but might help. I put it in all my Saabs (that would be five at current count) during the summer months here in Sacramento... -Justin
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