Cooling system maintenance

March 5, 2019
A few simple steps can keep a vehicle’s cooling system running in optimal condition.

These simple steps can keep a vehicle’s cooling system running in optimal condition:

  • Start with a clean system. Even new OEM systems should be cleaned properly and are contaminated from the beginning, because of dissimilar metals and chemical reactions in the components and coolant.
  • Use the exact same coolant every time, no exceptions. And, when mixing the coolant, use distilled water, not tap water – tap water contains minerals that will increase the chemical reactions and scaling. All different types of coolants include a range of special chemicals and antifreeze combinations designed to work within their own respective range chemistry. Each coolant (regardless of color) has its own unique formula, so they should not be combined.
  • Clean your cooling system regularly. A cooling system doesn’t stay clean. It is built from different types of metals that will corrode eventually, and various chemicals in the coolants can contribute to that corrosion over time. Preventive maintenance by keeping the cooling system clean will help keep the truck running smoothly.

Enviro-cool recommends cleaning the cooling system annually with a non-acidic alkaline cleaner. Unlike acidic cleaners, alkaline cleaners will not damage the metal and can be left in the system longer, allowing the system to be thoroughly flushed.

Information provided by Enviro-Cool

About the Author

Stefanie Von Rueden | Assistant Editor - Vehicle Repair Group

Stefanie Von Rueden is assistant editor for the Vehicle Repair Group.

Von Rueden’s background includes professional writing and publishing. Previously, she worked in the Continuing Education department at UW-Whitewater. She has covered the vehicle maintenance and automotive aftermarket since 2016.

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