Antifreeze

[Leyland]

Hi all
Just a quick question please. Which is the correct antifreeze to use? There seem to be several types.
Thanks
Ty

[Monty-4]

Generally the 'blue' silicate type as sold in the UK.

[oliver90owner]

The two historiclal antifreeze components have been ethylene glycol and methanol.

Methanol has been mostly forgotten as it is more volatile than water. Glycol mixtures with pH buffers were used for decades. Each usually contained an indicator which changed colour, should the mixture become too acidic.

More modern engines recommend a specific type for that engine - often at elevated cost. Alloy engines require a more specialised chemistry due to possible corrosion possibilities (between the mixed metals in particular). So it might depend on what engine you have fitted.

[Leyland]

Sorry I should have said that I have a standard 948 cast engine.
A make would be helpful. Thanks
Ty

[simmitc]

There's a long complicated answer about organic vs inorganic; but the short answer you need is "Bluecol". Buy that and mix as per the instructions on the container and you will be fine. Leave it in all year round and change every two years. This is by far and away the best AF for a Minor.

Thoroughly flush and drain the system, and replace any hoses that are old or decaying, before filling with the correct mixture.

[oliver90owner]

I think mine was ‘Comma’ brand. Bought in a 20l drum last time. I used it in my tractors, cars and lorry.

You can buy any brand you like, just a lot more expensive in small quantities and from the likes of halfords.

I expect there are few makers of the antifreeze constiuent and then additives such as indicators, corrosion inhibitors, water and other chemicals are added, to bump up the price (lots by some of the different brand names), to maximise their profit.

[Leyland]

Thanks everyone for advice. I will look out for some Bluecol.
Ty

[Dean]

Best time to buy can be summer, I noticed the price last year creep up when the cold winter was expected.