Re: '87 5KCSTQW Coolant Question

[Lowell Lamb <lamb@macs.oandm.uiuc.edu>]

> 
> > 
> > I was just reviewing some records I got with my '87 5KCSTQW a few months 
> > ago. Apparently, a dealer had recently flushed and replaced the coolant 
> > with the phosphate-free coolant as per Audi.
> > 
> > In some work done since I've owned it, I realized that one mechanic 
> > topped it up with regular Prestone and and his ok so did I when I changed 
> > the radiator thermoswitch.
> > 
> > Is there any grave danger to the cooling system in having the mix. I know 
> > it is not recommended but I was wondering if anyone out there has any 
> > first-hand experience or at least knows the science of it all.
> > 
> > Paul Levine
> > '87 5KCSTQW
> > Ft. Collins CO
> 
> 
> You took the question right off my fingertips.
> 
> >From the tone of your post I presume the 'regular' antifreezes 
> don't qualify.  Can other followers confirm?
> 

Did some research at the local AutoZone last night.

The "Prestone" they had did not list phospates.  Eth Gly, Diethyl
something, water, and "corrosion inhibitors".

The (cheaper) Xerex and off/store brands all listed "disomething
phosphate".


>From this I gather Prestone might be ok.  Don't know if there are
different "grades" of Prestone, but doesn't seem likely.

They didn't have any of the "environment safe" types, or at least
I didn't see any.


Lowell