RaiderMike67

If I'm not in an environment where it freezes is there any reason I can't just run straight water and something like water wetter or is anti freeze required to lubricate the system? I know water alone will run cooler but the guy at the parts place said the anti freeze works as a lubricant as well as an anti freeze.

ol"blue

You need something to lubricate the water pump which water alone can't do. Also anti-freeze raises the boiling point of water.

RaiderMike67

OK, here is where I am confused! If anti freeze raises the boiling point of water why does water alone run cooler(I'm sure there is some kind of transfer agent in anti freeze)? I've been told it's anti freeze/boil but on the back of products like water wetter etc. it shows 50/50 anti freeze/water to run the hottest.

Would lowering the ratio of anti freeze still provide enough lubricant while still being effective? I asked the guy at the parts store and he said the same thing regarding lubrication and anti boiling properties.

RaiderMike67

Sorry, hope that didn't come across as argumentive, that wasn't my intention.

ol"blue

No you don't have to mix it 50/50. You can mix it 30% AF to 70% water. There is usually a chart on the back on the container.

candymancan

Water doesnt need to run cooler, once the engine gets 212F it will boil. All these engines after warming up are always around 210f.. Thats why you need it, also water alone causes rust

Spr0ckEt

Water only boils at 212F when at atmospheric pressure, sea level. If you are at any elevation different, the boiling point will be different as well. Oh, not to mention, the system is under pressure. That alone will change it's boiling temp as well.

As for the water, if you want to use water only, (not reccommended) use distilled water. The "rust" is accelerated by the minerals in tap water.

Bustedback

Water absorbs heat faster than antifreeze, but you need antifreeze to lube the water pump and help reduce rust. The radiator cap raises the boiling point because it holds pressure, you raise the boiling point 3 degrees for every pound of pressure.

RaiderMike67

Ok, well I feel more educated and will just leave well enough alone.

Is anyone familiar with Evans waterless coolant? No water so runs on no pressure, supposed to last forever and less wear and tear on the cooling system overall.