finally broke down and purchased an aluminum radiator for my pick up. The box says to use approved coolant for aluminum radiators is this correct if so. what kind is that? i don not want to mess this up. Thank you in advance for the help.
Read the label on the antifreeze you want to use. Most now are multi-formula and should protect your aluminum radiator. Years ago though when copper was king and aluminum radiators started to become popular this wasn't the case. Here is some history on this subject: Aluminium is normally seen as corrosion resistant because an oxide layer forms on the exposed surfaces that acts as a barrier to further corrosion. However, in conditions where this barrier is broken, corrosion can be very rapid as aluminium is actually a very reactive metal. This is why care of the coolant becomes even more important when using an Aluminium radiator. Copper/brass cores are quite tolerant to water quality and although there are some chemicals that can cause problems, and corrosion inhibitors must be used, normal tap water is reasonably well tolerated. The same does not apply to aluminium cores. http://www.denso.com.au/Products/Au...nical-Information/Looking-After-Your-Radiator Hope that helps!
I read where Zerex G-05 anti-freeze works well with aluminum radiators. The most common comment though is to use distilled water to dilute the solution. Both are readily available at your local Super Wallyworld!
Alum. Rad. Coolant I only use Honda coolant , they use paper thin aluminum radiators and the correct coolant must be used else they'll go bad in a few years . Expect to change & flush it every two years , "permanent " coolant is B.S. .
