It's that time of year and I was wanting opinions on antifreezes that claim to mix with any make, model or color of coolant. Both my vehicles require Dex Cool which some don't like. I also read about some being concerned about coolant PH levels but when you ask auto parts stores about getting some PH strips, no one has any. The reason I mentioned PH is because I was wondering if I could get by with a radiator drain and refill instead of a flush. My coolant temperature and boil points still check OK and are clean but they've been in my vehicles a while. I have a S10 4.3L and a HHR 2.2L. What do some of you use if you don't use Dex Cool and do any of you check your coolant PH?
I've never done anything more than a drain and fill. I wouldn't put too much thought into it. I would use dexcool if that's what has been in it. It isn't that much different in cost and I would rather that over possibly leak issues from a different anitfreeze. I have read that it can cause gaskets to deteriorate. I dont know if it's just one of those things people speak of out of fear. I didn't find draining was too expensive.
I know dexcool gets trashed all over online, but none of my cars have ever had an issue.
I know dexcool gets trashed all over online, but none of my cars have ever had an issue.
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If your vehicle has dex in it, keep it in it unless you can do a legit machine flush like 2 times. Dex sucks but itll work, if you have over 120k its getting around that time to drian/fill - other than that leave it alone on a stock vehicle. Keep is simple.
I use distilled water and amsoil dominator coolant booster. I like using it because it changes color when the pH has fallen beyond specs.
