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coolant

Hi, I am planning to drain/refill the radiator on my 1994 SL2 auto. At my local auto store, I could only found those Prestone coolant that it touts for all makes and models. My Haynes manual specifically states that I should use non-phosphate ethylene glycol based antifreeze. I just so happen to have a couple containers of unused Prestone antifreeze, sealed, sitting in my garage for 8 - 10 years. Does anyone know would the chemicals in the antifreeze breaks down over time (again 8-10 years) even if it is sealed and kept in a garage all this time? Is it ok to use the coolant? Thanks, Ted

Reply to
tedliu525
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If it takes dexcool use dexcool. If it takes an OAT coolant never use conventional coolant. Conventional green coolants attact aluminum and should be completely changed every 2 years. Un-mixed sealed coolant should have a very very long shelf life. The new prestone coolant, yellow in color I think, I havent used yet nor seen it used long enough to know what it will do...

Reply to
blah blah

I found the following info at the Prestone site,

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states:

"Q: What is the shelf life of Prestone=AE Antifreeze/Coolant? A: If the product is still in the original sealed container then it has a shelf life of many years. If the product has been opened and has not been diluted with water then it also has a shelf life of many years."

However, what is "many years"? that's very vague. Is 10 years "many years", that is or too many years. Can anyone shed some light.

Thanks Ted

Reply to
tedliu525

If it says "safe for aluminum engines" then it's OK to use. 15 years ago phosphate-free antifreeze was the exception rather than the rule.

Do not put Dexcool (used in newer Saturns) in.

If the container hasn't broken down, then the antifreeze in it is fine.

Tim.

Reply to
shoppa

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