Antifreeze levels

Post by **MacAoidh** » 21 Dec 2006, 17:30

When I changed my anti-freeze I didn't drain the system enough. (Not sure how, I released low-lying hoses, and opened the rad bleed bolt.) Only managed to get 4.5 litres of (Halfords premium) antifreeze in.
Using a tester, the red ball floats, amber and green sink. (All should float.)
I've disconnected the top-up tank pipe, so I should be able to get a wee bit more a/f in once it's cooled.

Van is parked outdoors in a relatively sheltered spot, i.e. not out on a hill. Front is against a wall, under a bush and rad is lagged. Rear is going to catch the breeze.

How worried should I be? I'd really like to leave it for a while and get on with earning some cash - or do I need to get this done urgently? The engine is knackered, but I'd prefer to be able to drive to wherever its replacement is fitted.

Thanks, Steve.

Post by **kevtherev** » 21 Dec 2006, 17:33

if it drops below -10 then be worried

Post by **MacAoidh** » 21 Dec 2006, 17:40

Including wind-chill?

Post by **kevtherev** » 21 Dec 2006, 17:49

is the engine in the wind?

Post by **MacAoidh** » 21 Dec 2006, 17:59

Sort of. Tail end is sticking out. There are buildings around, but it's in a car park.

Post by **toomanytoys** » 21 Dec 2006, 18:06

How much did you get out???
there is a lot more than 4.5L in a T25... About 17L...
Presume you managed to bleed it up ok?

Post by **MacAoidh** » 21 Dec 2006, 18:22

Didn't measure what came out, as it was pure water (temporary fix).
I've bled the rad, taken it for a spin etc. There could be room for more bleeding, the heater was warm but no more. But then again, the tester says it's low.
I'm hoping it'll last the winter, come new tax year I'll be ready to spend money on it again.

Post by **MacAoidh** » 21 Dec 2006, 23:06

Thinking about it, I think the problem stems from the front end being a fraction lower than the rear. Drained the rad, but not those long pipes...

I guess I'll just have to bite the bullet and drain some mix out, buy another 2l of concentrate, and that and the 2.5l I still have left. But I reckon there may still be some air in there, the heater wasn't really happening. I was working from the Wiki/Haynes/Brickwerks, any other tips?