Radiator Coolant Chemical Reaction

[Holden V8 SS Ute]

Hi guys My VS has 2 different coolant chemicals mixed with each other. It has made this funny purple colour. My question is, should I get this replaced? IS it a big deal if so what do I ask for at radiator garage for? A chemical flush?

[Harvs82]

Hi guys My VS has 2 different coolant chemicals mixed with each other. It has made this funny purple colour. My question is, should I get this replaced? IS it a big deal if so what do I ask for at radiator garage for? A chemical flush?

Yes DEFINATELY get it replaced as soon as possible. You should never ever mix two different coolants together, as it can cause a chemical reaction which can accelerate corrosion, as well as having causing the coolant to not provide the protection it was designed for.

I would recommend using either the genuine Holden concentrate, or the tectaloy V series coolant, which is specifically designed for commodore v6 and v8 engines, as its heaps stronger than the premixed stuff. The entire cooling system will need a full flush though, so that only clean water remains.

[hako]

Mixing the normal green Glycol coolant with the red (phosphate?) type will result in the mixture turning to a jelly like substance so as Harvs82 says flush it out.