General information
Note: For all models discussed in this Manual, only light orange antifreeze is permitted (with prolonged use it may change slightly and become yellow)! The use of various types of antifreeze (the liquids have a characteristic "sea wave" color) can lead to failure of the cooling system and engine!
A properly proportioned mixture of water, antifreeze and anticorrosive agent should be used to fill the cooling system all year round. This mixture prevents damage that may occur due to exposure to low temperatures and corrosion and also increases the boiling point of the coolant. The mixture should be resistant to freezing at temperatures down to -30°C and, if necessary, even lower, depending on the climate zone of the region where the vehicle is used. In addition to frost resistance, antifreeze imparts anticorrosive properties to the mixture and increases its boiling point.
If the tap water in the region where the car is used is "hard", i.e. has a high content of mineral salts, distilled water should be used to form the coolant. As a rule, ready-made coolant of the required concentration is available for sale.
The exact composition of the coolant is determined by specific climatic conditions - refer to the coolant composition chart, which is usually printed on the container label. Try to use only the antifreeze grades recommended by the vehicle manufacturer (see Specifications to Chapter 1). Hydrometers for determining the specific gravity (density) of the coolant can be purchased at almost any car accessory store. Checking the quality condition and adjusting the level of coolant in the cooling system should be done in accordance with the schedule of current car maintenance (see Chapter 1). The fluid should be replaced regularly when the density decreases (ethylene glycol content) below the required level. In addition, during vehicle operation, the content of anti-corrosion additives in the coolant gradually decreases. These additives are deposited on engine parts and the cooling system made of light alloys, thereby creating long-term anti-corrosion protection. The amount of anti-corrosion components in used coolant is insignificant and cannot create sufficient protection on new parts. Therefore, regardless of the density of the liquid, it must be replaced after repairs in which the cylinder head, cylinder head gasket, radiator, heater heat exchanger or engine were replaced. If it is necessary to drain the coolant during other work, it can be reused.
Note: Scheduled maintenance includes only checking and adjusting the coolant level. Draining and replacing the fluid is an additional operation.
Before adding coolant to the system, check the reliability of the hoses' fastening on their fittings - antifreeze has a high fluidity and is capable of leaking through the slightest leaks. During normal operation of the engine, the coolant is not consumed, so a noticeable drop in its level is a sign of the development of external leaks, the cause of which must be immediately identified and eliminated.
Precautionary measures
See also Chapter 1, Section 4.
Caution: To avoid scalding, never remove the expansion tank cap or disconnect any cooling system components when the engine is hot - follow the recommendations given in Chapter 1, Section 4. During the entire procedure, do not bend your face over the neck of the tank; wear rubber gloves to protect your hands.
Source is on the website: opelbook.ru
Warning: Antifreeze is a strong poison! Avoid contact of coolant with exposed skin and ingestion!
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