Radiator coolant

[Patrick]

Hi. I have another question about radiator coolant.

You see, I'm from Malaysia, where the weather is hot and humid the whole year. However, from what I know, the anti-freeze in the radiator should still be kept to at least 30%, as it provides anti-corrosion and anti-rust for the vehicle. However, many people just add in plain water when the radiator level drops. May I know who is correct, me or those who think it is not necessary to use anti-freeze?

Besides that, we should flush the radiator every 2 years or 20000 miles right? Here, when you send your car to service, they just change your motor oil, but I don't see them flushing the radiator coolant. We have to flush the radiator coolant every 2 years right?

Thanks!

[GTS Jeff]

antifreeze also raises the boiling point of coolant, so yes, use it.

[turboMiata]

There is meter (hygrometer????!) you can get to check your coolant mixture to see if you are within the range. And you should use only pure distilled water.

If you are experiecing overheating, you should try Redline's Water Wetter. It definitely helps. I noticed a reduction in my water temps by a few degrees after using it.

I have also heard people run a water wetter and distilled water mixture. Sez on the bottle you can do that.