Coolant flushing chemicals. do they work?

[redstu]

I'm going to change the coolant in my 156, I've opted for the "red" one which seems to be an improvement over the older type.
I'll be giving the system a good flush with clean water via a hosepipe (before they get banned !!!). But I thought that I might also use one of the radflush type chemicals.
But do they actualy work ?

[MondeoMan1981]

Would be keen to hear this too as my coolant needs a change its old and well, not nice

[Rich_W]

redstu said:

I'm going to change the coolant in my 156, I've opted for the "red" one which seems to be an improvement over the older type.
I'll be giving the system a good flush with clean water via a hosepipe (before they get banned !!!). But I thought that I might also use one of the radflush type chemicals.
But do they actualy work ?

Flushing coolant onto the floor/drain is not advisable. Particularly as it's poisonous.

[redstu]

Well no positives so I'll take it as a no. I've tried them on the past and not been impressed.

[bazking69]

Waste of time IMO. A flush with a hosepipe does the job. If anything harsh chemicals tend to do more damage than good.

Also, please be responsible with antifreeze and don't just 'drop' it on the floor to drain away. It is nasty stuff that can kill or harm pets and animals.

[redstu]

^ yes cats like etylene glycol it tastes sweet but screws their livers somewhat! I save what I can and use it diluted in winter in the screenwash.
Although it apparently can damage paintwork I've not found that.

[WhoseGeneration]

redstu said:

I'm going to change the coolant in my 156, I've opted for the "red" one which seems to be an improvement over the older type.
I'll be giving the system a good flush with clean water via a hosepipe (before they get banned !!!). But I thought that I might also use one of the radflush type chemicals.
But do they actualy work ?

Another mini minefield.
Has your car had coolant changes on schedule? If so, just drain, taking rad bottom hose off too, even if a rad drain tap and also jack rear end up to help.
Also empty the expansion bottle if possible.
Then refill with the coolant and preferably deionised water(some say this is not necessary but I've done it for decades and never had a coolant problem) mix, then bleed the system following manufacturer's instructions for your car.
If not on schedule a reverse flush of the rad is a good idea and is easier if you remove the rad.
Regarding the type of antifreeze, it is best to use the same colour as was initially used from new. There are implications with regard to seal materials.
Some manufacturers now use and supply coolants with a longer service life than traditional ones.