- Joined
- Dec 20, 2020
- Messages
- 90
I recently completely flushed my cooling system and replaced the coolant. I did a very thorough flush using a radiator flush kit, distilled water and flushing several times. I removed my thermostat, put the heater on high and drained my reservoir tank. I had completely clear water draining out prior to re-adding coolant. I added 2 jugs of the new coolant which was prestone concentrate. The jugs were 3.78L each for a total of 7.5L of concentrate added. The capacity of my cooling system is 15.3L so I figured that using 7.5L of coolant would give me a 50/50 mix (or very close) which is what is recommended. After doing this I went to a local oil change shop and asked them to test the ratio using there ANTIFREEZE COOLANT TESTER. They sucked up a sample and said it was good for about -35 C. They explained that this was a little warmer than they usually go (they like to see -45 to -50) but because I live in a place which rarely goes below zero and never below -10 then it should be fine. I did not have them test the acid/ph level at this time. 2 weeks later (today) I went for an oil change and they tested my coolant with a little strip of paper. My PH level was 5.5 which is low (should be a min of 7 and ideally between 9-10). The test was conducted right in front of me so am not concerned about them misleading me.
My question is (which they weren't able to answer) if I drain out some of my coolant and add some more of the concentrate (making my ratio stronger) will that increase my PH level? I've tried to look on google but can't find anything specific. Is my PH level low because my ratio of water is on the high side, or does the ration of coolant to water have nothing to do with the PH level.... thanks
My question is (which they weren't able to answer) if I drain out some of my coolant and add some more of the concentrate (making my ratio stronger) will that increase my PH level? I've tried to look on google but can't find anything specific. Is my PH level low because my ratio of water is on the high side, or does the ration of coolant to water have nothing to do with the PH level.... thanks
Last edited: