Coolant talk

[gmask]

I'm thinking about putting %100 MB coolant in my 72 250. Is there any reason I shouldn't?

I'm in Southern California and would exchange the coolant every year or is it wasteful. Would 50/50 do just as well.

I guess in either case adding water wetter is a good idea?

[MikeTangas]

100% coolant is way too thick, you will certainly overheat running that much. For So Cal, your best bet is probably 40-45% coolant to 55-60% water. Straight water will cool way better than straight coolant and a proper mix of coolant and water will best protect your engine.

On the 4.5 I run 40/60 with a bottle of water wetter, the 560 gets 45/55 and the water wetter. 4.5 has been holding steady at ~180*F while the 560 is solid at 80-82*C (82*C in heay traffic w/AC).

[Aaron]

I agree with Mike. Run slightly higher percentage of water than coolant, and DO use Water Wetter. In Southern California traffic in the summer, you need all you can to keep the old sixes running cool.