re: antifreeze

[tedcrum@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx]

There is no "older corrosive formula".

There are two kinds of antifreeze, phosphate (the older formula) and 
non-phosphate (the newer formula). It's not like phosphates are something 
to avoid, there are just two ways of doing the job.

Either will protect iron and aluminum from corrosion; there is even some
evidence the older phosphate formulas are better in this respect. (ask
Cummins) But...

o Phosphate antifreezes lose their corrosion inhibitors quickly, and they 
must be changed yearly. Non-phosphate coolants last for at least 3 years.

o The two types must not be mixed.

o BMW specifies Non-phosphate.


Because of the last two items, you should be using non-phosphate coolant 
in your BMW's. (FWIW, all non-phosphate coolant sold in the US is licensed 
by Texaco, which is a partner in the Equilon venture with the European 
patent holder.) The easiest way to get phosphate-free coolant is to look 
for a product that meets the US auto industry "Dex-Cool" specification. It 
will always be orange. 

- -tc

> Date: Mon, 2 Dec 2002 13:19:37 -0500 
> From: "Sanders, Ron" <rls5@domain.elided>
> Subject: antifreeze
> 
> Tis the season.  Has anyone found a suitable coolant/antifreeze 
alternative
> for BMW cooling systems?  Many manufacturers use aluminum and plastic
> cooling system parts similar to BMW that don't respond well to some of 
the
> older corrosive coolant formulas.  If possible, I would like to avoid a 
trip
> to the dealer for a jug of $10 coolant if I can buy a comparable 
substitute
> at the local auto parts store.    
> 
> Ron Sanders
> RSanders@domain.elided
> 
> 93 325is
> 92 525

- -- 
Ted Crum
1988 735i  5-speed
tedcrum@domain.elided

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