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132 Posts
1999 1100 Shadow. Have not changed coolant in 5 years but only 10,000 miles. Manual states 2 years but 24,000 miles. What are the issues/concerns?
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Coolant Change
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Thanks for the reminder!!!
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740 Posts
Yeah I second that!
Just got a related question for those of us needing to change it, is there a method of "blasting" anything down the main funnel to help clear out deposits/rust build up? I know using a garden hose and tap water is frowned upon, but does anyone have a method they use to help clear things out when changing coolant?
All I`ve done is remove the drain, let it flow...
This is according to directions in the service manual...
I`ll see if I can find a link
This is according to directions in the service manual...
I`ll see if I can find a link
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6,553 Posts
I use the Honda coolant because it's premixed and ready to use.
Some guys around here use a silicate free coolant that you mix with distilled water. Maybe they'll chime in.
Phil
I support my local Honda shop too, when it comes to coolant...
My Baby is worth it
I check coolant effectiveness with a "bulb type tester" Mine is still antifreeze
BUT I wonder about the lubricating factor???
My Baby is worth it
I check coolant effectiveness with a "bulb type tester" Mine is still antifreeze
BUT I wonder about the lubricating factor???
The best mix for coolant to water is 50/50.
But since water is the best heat remover in a cooling system, you guys that live in a warmer area could go down to 30 or 40 % of coolant. you don't really need protection down to -35 degrees.
But still need anti corrosion protection.
But more coolant is not more cooling=
A fellow I worked with said his dad put 100% coolant in his Dodge truck thinking it was better. But on a long mountain road it was getting hot. So he pulled over and let it cool down and took off the radiator cap to find the coolant was turning to a jelly. NOT GOOD.
But since water is the best heat remover in a cooling system, you guys that live in a warmer area could go down to 30 or 40 % of coolant. you don't really need protection down to -35 degrees.
But still need anti corrosion protection.
But more coolant is not more cooling=
A fellow I worked with said his dad put 100% coolant in his Dodge truck thinking it was better. But on a long mountain road it was getting hot. So he pulled over and let it cool down and took off the radiator cap to find the coolant was turning to a jelly. NOT GOOD.
The issue with coolant was that the corrosion inhibitors would break down so cooling system metallic parts would oxidize (water + oxygen + heat = rust). Coolant and engine manufacturers are well on the conservative side so your 5 years (no matter what mileage) is too long but probably minimal damage and may never have a negative effect.
Most coolants such as Prestone are now good for 5 years so try to find one of those. If you decide to flush, use a garden hose and water but not much since you have to capture the runoff in a large container and dispose of it correctly (along with the drained coolant). I don't flush but change coolant every 2 years and now every 4 years. I use premixed since it is inexpensive, convenient and lasts at least 4-5 years. You cannot store it for the 5 years so buy just enough to do you vehicles. A 50/50 mix will work in most climates and in extreme climates you should never go beyond 40/60
G.
Most coolants such as Prestone are now good for 5 years so try to find one of those. If you decide to flush, use a garden hose and water but not much since you have to capture the runoff in a large container and dispose of it correctly (along with the drained coolant). I don't flush but change coolant every 2 years and now every 4 years. I use premixed since it is inexpensive, convenient and lasts at least 4-5 years. You cannot store it for the 5 years so buy just enough to do you vehicles. A 50/50 mix will work in most climates and in extreme climates you should never go beyond 40/60
G.
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