2 quick coolant questions

[dsmith41]

Is the coolant level in the radiator supposed to be completely full to the brim of the filler neck? That is the only way can see there not being any air in the system.

And...is it really safe to mix Peak Global Lifetime with Motorcraft Gold (G-05) coolant? It says it is supposed to be but I want to be completely sure.

 

[StevieC]

I wouldn't mix anything that wasn't the same brand regardless of what it said. Flush and fill completely with the same stuff or go to a Ford dealer and get the MC G-05.

Coolant is cheap and replacing sludged cooling system components isn't fun or cheap!

The cooling system won't be full up to the neck but should be a 1/2" from it or so.

 

[HTSS_TR]

Yes, the coolant level in the radiator is supposed to be completely full to the brim of the filler neck, if the reservoir is not emptied.

I would not mix Peak Global Lifetime with G-05, it may not do any harm but I rather top off with G-05.

 

[rslifkin]

I would only top off with G-05. Mixing coolant types is never a good idea. It doesn't matter if it's the John Deere G-05 (Coolgard, I think), Mopar G-05, Zerex G-05 or Ford Motorcraft Gold G-05.

 

[mechanicx]

I wouldn't mix the two either because while they may be compatible, they are completely different inhibitor formulas. You want to fill the radiator as full as possible. There might be a little air gap but this will quickly be taken up as the coolant heats up.

 

[JHZR2]

Depends on the system. Typically in modern engines with an overflow bottle, yes. Some systems have a fill line in the radiator neck, like my 81 MB 240D.

 

[dsmith41]

Well I topped it off with the PGL in pinch just to get it full. I plan on doing a flush soon, like in the the couple thousand miles. Hopefully nothing will get screwed up in that time.

 

[StevieC]

Couple thousand miles and that small amount you should be fine... Don't make a habit of it is all.