General information
Attention: For all models considered in this Manual, only light orange antifreeze is allowed (with prolonged use, it may change slightly and become yellow)! The use of various kinds of antifreeze (liquids have a characteristic color «sea wave») can lead to failure of the cooling system and the engine!
A properly proportioned mixture of water, antifreeze and anti-corrosion agent should be used to charge the cooling system year-round. This mixture prevents damage caused by low temperatures and corrosion, and also increases the boiling point of the coolant. The mixture must be resistant to freezing at temperatures down to -30°C, and, if necessary, even lower, depending on the climatic zone of the region where the car is used. In addition to frost resistance, antifreeze gives the mixture anti-corrosion properties and increases its boiling point.
If the tap water in the region where the vehicle is operated is «tough», i.e. is characterized by a high content of mineral salts, distilled water should be used to form the coolant. As a rule, ready-made coolant of the required concentration is on sale.
The exact composition of the coolant is determined by specific climatic conditions - refer to the coolant composition chart, which is usually applied to the container label. Try to use only grades of antifreeze recommended by the vehicle manufacturers (see Specifications for Chapter 1). Hydrometers for specific gravity determination (density) coolant can be purchased at almost any auto accessories store. Checking the quality condition and adjusting the coolant level in the cooling system should be carried out in accordance with the car’s routine maintenance schedule (see chapter 1). Fluid changes should be done regularly when density decreases (ethylene glycol content) below required. In addition, during the operation of the car, there is a gradual decrease in the content of anti-corrosion additives in the coolant, which are deposited on engine parts and cooling systems made of light alloys and thus create long-term anti-corrosion protection. In used coolant, the amount of anti-corrosion components is negligible and cannot create sufficient protection on new parts. Therefore, regardless of the density of the liquid, it is necessary to replace it after a repair in which the cylinder head, cylinder head gasket, radiator, heater heat exchanger or engine were replaced. If other work requires draining the coolant, it can be reused.
Note: Scheduled maintenance only includes checking and correcting the coolant level. Draining and fluid replacement work is an additional operation.
Before adding coolant to the system, check the reliability of the fastening of the hoses of the latter on their fittings - antifreeze has a high fluidity and is capable of leaking through the slightest leaks. During normal operation of the engine, coolant is not consumed, so a noticeable drop in its level is a sign of the development of external leaks, the cause of which should be clarified and eliminated without delay.
Precautionary measures
See also Chapter 1, Section 4.
Attention: To avoid scalding, never remove the cap of the expansion tank or disconnect any components of the cooling path when the engine is hot - follow the recommendations given in Chapter 1, Section 4. During the entire procedure, do not tilt your face over the neck of the tank; wear rubber gloves to protect your hands.
Attention: Antifreeze is a strong poison! Avoid getting coolant on exposed skin and food tract!
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