Help with coolant choice - 1992 Olds

[cwing6]

I recently purchased a 1992 Olds Cutlass Ciera 3.3 6 cylinder with only 79K miles. I want to drain and flush the radiator but am not sure what to refill with. I've read thru many posts on this forum (Dexcool, Deathcool, etc.) I am not sure whats in it now, but its brown and probably hasn't ever been changed. The owners manual does not specify it must be Dexcool but the local auto parts place says it probably is. I plan on a drain and refill cycle of 2 - 3 years, but don't want to ruin the engine just by using the wrong coolant.

Bonus question - what type of vehicles need/use redline's water wetter? I guess I'm not clear on the benefit if you keep your coolant clean and at the proper mixture.

Any help would be appreciated!

 

[pbm]

I don't think Dexcool came around till about 1994 so I would think it's conventional green a/f. I would flush it and use regular green PEAK or whatever conventional you can find.

 

[Chris71]

My guess is that a 1992 GM would still use the old formula(Green). Flush her out and fill it with green antifreeze and distilled water. Don't forget to change the thermostat if its been in there a long time.

 

[Sayjac]

+1 on conventional green for pre94 GM. I've seen it recently in several auto parts stores and the name brand really makes no difference. I'd get the full strength not 50/50.

If your water is not too hard, you could even use a flushing T with something like a mild Prestone Super Flush.

Based on what I've read, I'd skip the water wetter.

 

[Chris71]

Most Wal Marts don't sell the green stuff anymore. Try a Napa, Advance, or Auto Zone.

 

[cwing6]

Thanks for the quick replies! This site is great. I'll flush with the super flush, then use the green stuff and not worry.