Griff 500 coolant question...

[Exige S]

I know this has been done to death but with so many threads (some of them very old) providing so many different answers I'm confused, so I'm hoping someone can provide a more definitive answer.

My 1997 Griff 500 currently has blue coolant. What should I replace it with, and what's the coolant capacity, approximately?

I understand if I change coolant types I'll have to flush the system, any tips on how to best do this?

[ruaricoles]

I'd just avoid coolant stating "organic acid technology" (OAT) as it can corrode some materials if the engine hasn't been specifically designed to use it. The OAT coolant I've used in the past has been pink or orange, but I'm not sure if all OAT coolant is those colours, or conversely if all pink/orange coolant is OAT. Perhaps someone can advise.

You're right that you shouldn't mix types. Usual mix of 50/50 recommended for corrosion and Russian winters but I think around 40% coolant 60% water actually gives the best heat transfer.

Ruari

Edited by ruaricoles on Monday 23 July 23:04

[ruaricoles]

Bit more info here

http://www.opieoils.co.uk/pdfs/tech-articles/coola...

Seems that colour is no indicator of coolant type (according to this article anyway) so read the label! Also confirms OAT coolant is no good for any engine with copper / brass / solder, but I'm sure I've heard it can affect some types of plastics also.

Ruari

[PeteGriff]

Exige S said:

I know this has been done to death but with so many threads (some of them very old) providing so many different answers I'm confused, so I'm hoping someone can provide a more definitive answer.

My 1997 Griff 500 currently has blue coolant. What should I replace it with, and what's the coolant capacity, approximately?

I understand if I change coolant types I'll have to flush the system, any tips on how to best do this?

I do not believe colour is any indicator as the base chemical - monoethylene glycol, is a colourless fluid. Manufacturers make their own concoctions with the various corrosion inhibitors etc. I have recently refilled the whole of my system after a rad recore and complete hose change. In fact the fluid is a green colour. I used a very hight spec Volvo Marine coolant which is formulated especially for aluminium engines and radiators, mixture 40%. I would advise checking the specification and ensuring whatever you use is suitable for aluminium and has the corrosion inhibitors. All the best, Pete

[Exige S]

Ok, thanks for the advice guys. Wish me luck...