Important of Coolant Changes vs Topping Off

Yes. The coolant contains additives to help protect the cooling system from corrosion. Just like in oil, these additives can break down over time. Also, just like oil, the coolant mix can become dirty, neccessitating a change. Change it again soon.

. . =3D=3D=3D=3D =3D=3D=3D=3D "Spiderman" wrote: . I had my radiator flushed and filled on my 1989 Chevy S10 Blazer 3 years ago. Since then I've simply topped it off each year. How important is it to completely flush the system every 2-3 years? =3D=3D=3D=3D=3D =3D=3D=3D=3D=3D snipped-for-privacy@levyclan.nospam.us (Mike=A0Levy) replied: . Yes. The coolant contains additives to help protect the cooling system from corrosion. Just like in oil, these additives can break down over time. Also, just like oil, the coolant mix can become dirty, neccessitating a change.

Change it again soon. =3D=3D=3D=3D=3D =3D=3D=3D=3D=3D

what Mike said, ditto.

~:~ MarshMonster =3D=3D=3D

One question - where's the old coolant going? How much are you adding? If you're adding a lot of coolant on a regular basis, I'd fix the leak first...

Ray

There's no leaking...I just add a little bit to the overflow tank about once a year to top it off. The engine temperature gauge is always in normal operating range.

All your questions will be answered

http://hostingprod.com/@aa1car.com/library/coolant.htm

HarryS

Ok, define a little bit - a cup, a gallon?

And yes, you should change the coolant on a regular basis. A flush is overkill, but you should at least drain most of it and refill with fresh coolant and clean water.

And, if you own an old car that wasn't maintained properly before you bought it, you'll usually flush all sorts of gunk out when you start changing the coolant.

Story: Friend bought a used 77 Dodge van for $1 back in about 92. brown stuff in the leaking rad. Swapped rad, flushed coolant. Twice. Two days later, had to do it again. Took it to a shop a week later because it was still brown. They powerflushed it. A week later they did it again for free because it was still brown. It took a total of 7 flushings before the coolant would stay green for more than a week. (it was a slant-six, so it was pretty much indestructible - I think it might still be on the road today...)

Ray

You're confusing me with the OP. I wanted to know if he's adding a lot of coolant to cover up a leak (2.8 intake gasket?) or if it's just evaporation (the overflow bottle on my 86 Jimmy isn't exactly airtight...)

Ray