Low Silicate vs High vs No Coolant & Imports

[cangreylegend]

OK, after 12 years of using silicated coolant, I learn of non silicate coolants for Japanese autos. I just changed my TB and water pump and wondering whether to switch to the non silicate OAT type as recommended by Honda. After 12 years, I imagine my engine is totally silicated up. Coolant changed every couple years with normal Prestone. I'm wondering if it is all hype.
My last water pump lasted a little over 110,000 kms but it's been 9 years. So I'm not convinced but on the other hand the pump should have been good for at least 140,000 kms per Honda. With all that silicated plated up over all the years, the OAT type may be neutalized immediately when installed.

I've decided to go low silicate (generic) until I get to the bottom of this. What do you think? Hype?

 

[HondaRD]

I think using non-silicate, low phosphorus coolant is important for use in Hondas and many European cars. That is basically what Dex-Cool is, a phosphate free coolant that contains no silicates. I think Peak and Prestone have coolant that is safe to use in Hondas but is labled as extended coolant or heavy duty or something like that.

 

[edwardh1]

coflicting views
-national radiator assn sez "japanese cars get along just fine with silicated" (course they probably think radiators, not water pumps or heads)
-Japanese mfgs say use non silicated

i would either flush it all out and use japanese (Toyota red may be cheapeset Nissan gren is expensive)

Or put in the low silicate zerex ( Go5?) if you can find it.

[ February 20, 2004, 09:07 AM: Message edited by: edwardh1 ]

 

[boxcartommie22]

i have an 98 ford crown vic and expedition and i started to use zerex g-05 anti freeze...they sell it at all kinds of places here...pep boys 8.95 gal,car quest 10 bucks auto zone 9 bucks...

 

[seotaji]

i'd use a chemical flush to rid the system of the buildup.

then refill with honda coolant.