The operation of the engine is accompanied by a large heat release and its cooling is necessary for every car. The temperature reduction obtained by air movement will not be enough, and special coolants are available. The functioning of the engine depends on their quality, so it is important to choose the right composition. On the market there are different kinds antifreeze, and you need to know their features.
Coolant
To cool the engine, a fluid with modified freezing and boiling values is needed. These features allow the vehicle to be used in severe winter or abnormal summer conditions. In colloquial vocabulary, all types of coolants are called antifreeze or antifreeze. These names hide huge differences in composition, which is reflected in their performance.
Antifreeze, like antifreeze, is marked by manufacturers not only in terms of characteristics, but also in color. These features are needed to visually distinguish liquids of different composition. So, the color of antifreeze can be blue or red, and antifreeze has many more shades. For a correct understanding of their properties, you should study the composition of the refrigerant.
What is antifreeze and antifreeze
Before the advent of coolants, water was used as a coolant. Its boiling or freezing in the system made it difficult to use the machine, and Automotive industry demanded a more efficient solution. The basis of the coolant is a solution of ethylene glycol with distilled water. Organic substances or complex chemical compounds are used as additives. Due to these additives, various properties of the coolant are achieved.
Antifreeze became the first coolant that was available commercially. Fuel system the car required high-quality cooling, and the water was poorly suited for its physicochemical characteristics. The use of an ethylene glycol based fluid has greatly simplified the operation of the machine. A low freezing threshold was important in harsh winters, and antifreeze provided an opportunity to experience all the benefits of good cooling.
The use of antifreeze
Antifreeze - developed in the USSR for domestic cars... At the time of its release, the concept of antifreeze did not exist on the auto chemistry market. Several types of antifreeze were created, which had different freezing thresholds. In addition, color markers made it possible to quickly detect leaks or changes in fluid properties. Antifreeze was not a separate product and was part of the first generation antifreeze group. Today there are only two types of such solutions:
- Antifreeze 40 - has a blue color and freezes at a temperature of - 40;
- Antifreeze 65 is a red liquid that can withstand frosts down to -65.
Both solutions use the same chemical composition, and the difference between them lies in the concentration of alcohol. The color difference serves only to highlight the temperature threshold values.
Antifreeze application
Antifreeze is a whole group of coolants developed by large foreign companies. Such a composition differs from water not only in the changed freezing threshold and boiling point. Antifreeze has a thermal expansion of 1.5% when exposed to cold, while water has 9%. Ethylene glycol-based fluids are the most widely used fluids, and the addition of additives has helped to significantly improve their properties.
Rationing of coolants is based on GOST 28084-89, but its requirements do not regulate the composition and amount of additives. Most countries have their own government regulations, and the production of antifreeze is carried out on the basis of their recommendations. In addition to the existence of GOSTs, various technical specifications are used, on the basis of which the temperature limits are indicated.
Antifreeze marking
Coolant has long been known to most drivers. In addition to the familiar labeling informing about the freezing point of antifreeze, there is also an alphabetic code. This separation makes it possible to obtain more complete information about the composition of the coolant. There are only three types of this designation:
- A - the coolant is completely ready for filling into the car and does not require changes in its composition;
- M - a modernized composition, which includes inhibitors that prevent the appearance of rust;
- K - concentrate from which the cooling liquid is independently prepared by adding distilled water.
It is after this marking that the freezing point, purpose and composition are indicated. This designation is contrary to the requirements of GOST 28084-89, which allows only marking the finished solution or concentrate. Consequently, antifreeze made according to these requirements does not have a category "M" in the name. The use of technical specifications in the production, on the contrary, does not prohibit such a designation.
The influence of antifreeze on the cooling system
Antifreeze combines well with all refrigerants with mineral additives. This feature allows you to use any domestic coolants, as well as imported counterparts bearing the designation G11. With the correct density, the corrosive effect will be minimal, but a decrease in such indicators will lead to rapid contamination of the antifreeze from contact with metal parts.
Strong heating is not able to harm the coolant, but it has a detrimental effect on structural elements. So, softening of rubber pipes can lead to leakage of antifreeze, which will require the need to replenish the lost volume. It should be remembered that pouring pure concentrate is strictly prohibited, and such actions may freeze the engine.
Antifreeze and antifreeze compatibility
Coolant content can be reduced as a result of loss of tightness in the system or physical evaporation of water. Due to the use of dyes, such a leak is immediately visible, but such a situation will require replenishment of antifreeze. Depending on what type of coolant is used in the machine, an equivalent replacement can be selected. Antifreezes are marked from G11 to G13, and their differences are quite significant.
If everything is clear with the replacement and addition of antifreeze, then antifreezes raise many questions. Coolant compatibility mainly depends on the type of additives used and ill-considered mixing can render them unusable. If the refrigerants are incompatible, it will be correct to top up with distilled water, which eliminates the need to flush the entire system. If antifreeze is recommended by GOST and TU, then the antifreeze has a standardization of the country of the manufacturer. For the cooling system to work properly, you should know everything about the compatibility of such products.
Adding water to antifreeze or antifreeze
A change in the concentration of the solution, by deviating its indicators from the permissible ones, can harm the car's cooling system. The calculated density of antifreeze and antifreeze will increase when moisture evaporates. In this case, the addition of distilled water will help restore the properties of the refrigerant, but such a measure is unacceptable when the cooling system is depressurized and antifreeze leaks.
Adding water to a cooling solution balanced by the manufacturer will change its characteristics. The boiling and freezing point of antifreeze is precisely calculated. Such actions can lead to overheating of the engine, and freezing of the liquid will cause a leak in the radiator. The addition of water is only justified if it evaporates. Moreover, to perform such an operation, the coolant should be drained, mixed and only then poured back.
Determination of the quality of antifreeze
Although it is not entirely profitable to counterfeit antifreeze because of its low price, such cases are far from an exception. The first thing to look out for is color. The liquid must be blue, and this color cannot affect its transparency. The A-65 brand has a red color, but the specific temperature regime makes it less popular. The manufacturer's packaging always has a good appearance and label distortions or poorly sealed lid are unacceptable on it.
In case of the slightest doubt, it will be useful to ask the seller for a certificate of conformity. Although this procedure is optional, all manufacturers choose to voluntarily undergo certification. If such documents do not exist, it is better to forget about the dubious liquid and purchase products from a trusted supplier.
Radiator and cooling system protection
The modern automotive industry prefers light metals in production. The use of aluminum is poorly combined with coolants such as antifreeze. Its main disadvantage is considered to be the impossibility of constructing a protective shell at high temperatures. That is why most manufacturers recommend using G12 antifreeze or older generations as a refrigerant. Carboxylate compounds, thanks to additives, on the contrary, create gentle conditions for aluminum and prevent oxidation.
For long-term operation of the cooling system, the following rules should be observed:
- For topping up, use antifreeze from the same manufacturer;
- Do not mix antifreeze of different chemical composition and generation;
- Do not add too much water when the antifreeze evaporates;
- When producing antifreeze, flush the entire cooling system.
There is no single standard for replacing antifreeze, and when performing such operations, more attention should be paid to technical conditions than to GOST. Good antifreeze issued under different brands, and its replacement will not cause difficulties even for a beginner.
Coolant selection and replacement
Antifreeze market entry last generation with an almost lifetime guarantee, innovated in production Vehicle... For example, Volkswagen and General Motors do not require refrigerant replacement during the entire period of operation. Owners of older vehicles should base their selection on the manufacturer's recommendations. For the owner is far from new technology it will hardly be practical to replace the usual antifreeze with G13 antifreeze, the price of which is ten times higher.
Replacing the coolant can be scheduled or early. Hit exhaust gases through a faulty head gasket or air leaks at the place of depressurization will lead to intensive aging of the fluid. So, brown antifreeze or its dark brown color will indicate the presence of rust in the system. To check the quality of antifreeze, you can measure the density of the solution. So, indicators in the range of 1.06-1.090 are considered optimal for the refrigerant. Maintenance of the car's cooling system is not difficult and basic knowledge of the types of antifreeze will help to avoid problems on the road.
If you have any questions - leave them in the comments below the article. We or our visitors will be happy to answer them.
It happens that car owners do not pay enough or do not pay at all to the issue of the condition of the coolant in the cooling system. Moreover, there are cases when motorists do not even know what is poured into it. This behavior is highly undesirable, because it depends on the state of the cooling system stable work the motor as a whole.
In the video below, an overview and comparison of the general properties of antifreeze and antifreeze:
Coolant properties
However, car owners often face the question of what to fill, antifreeze or antifreeze! Below, we will talk about this in detail, and figure out which is better. Such competition and conditional division of the coolant into antifreeze and antifreeze exists only in Russia.
After all, "TOSOL" is an antifreeze liquid created on the territory of the Soviet Union, and now this word is a household word.
The main component of any modern "TOSOL" is ethylene glycol, and as a rule it is painted in two colors: blue - with a freezing point of -40C , and red - able to withstand frost down to -65 degrees Celsius .
And the concept, antifreeze is the common name for fluids that can operate at negative temperatures in engines. internal combustion and also as anti-icing fluids in aviation. The composition of antifreeze, as a rule, includes: propylene glycol (not toxic substance- approx.), Ethylene glycol, glycerin, as well as various additives that protect against corrosion.
Making the right choice means a lot
Judging by the various experiments carried out by the most advanced and well-known automobile publications, it is safe to say that more than 20% of all car breakdowns directly depend on the quality of the filled coolant, and about 40% of breakdowns indirectly affect this. Therefore, the choice of such liquids is a responsible and important process, because the right choice Coolant is able to save both money and time in the future.
Difficult choice between antifreeze and antifreeze
In order to choose the right coolant, it is recommended to study in detail the manual from the manufacturer, in which it is most often written what type of coolant is intended for the car. Such instructions are always supported by successful tests of these formulations, specifically for each type of car engine. In addition, the recommendations may include a class of liquids that are produced using the following technologies:
- Traditional - The coolant created using this technology contains additives from inorganic salts such as nitrites, nitrates, phosphates, etc.
- Carboxylate - The coolant created using this technology already has additives from organic salts, carbonates, which interact much better with the internal parts of the engine.
- Hybrid- this technology was created to create a kind of carboxylate technology with the addition of inorganic acids. This is done to reduce the cost of the final product.
As you could understand, antifreeze is a liquid created using traditional technology, and antifreeze, using a carboxylate technology, which has clear advantages over the first.
Pros and cons of antifreeze
As it became clear, antifreeze has a number of advantages, below we will describe each of them in more detail. Antifreeze has many advantages over antifreeze, which you should definitely familiarize yourself with:
Heat dissipation
Coolants that are created using traditional technology (TOSOL - approx.) Are able to create a protective film on the metal surface in the engine, which sometimes can reach dimensions of 0.5 mm. Despite the fact that this actively contributes to the protection of the metal from the effects of corrosion, heat transfer can deteriorate by up to 50%.
If a low-quality coolant is filled, then scale can damage the water pump and impair the operation of the cooling system as a whole.
Antifreeze in this case is used as a heat insulator and does not allow the engine to cool down properly under normal conditions. And during operation, it makes it work at a much higher temperature, which leads to wear of parts, and a decrease in engine thrust. V in this case have to .
Antifreeze in this regard works much more productively, since a protective layer is formed only where corrosion is possible, bypassing the rest of the surface, without interfering with stable heat transfer.
Lifetime
The service life of antifreeze, in comparison with antifreeze, is much longer, because during the production of antifreeze, nitrites and silicates are used, designed to protect against erosion and corrosion, which in case of violation of their composition very quickly lose their properties. And this can happen due to an unbalanced flow of one of the components.
Vehicle mileage cannot exceed 30-40 thousand kilometers without.
And antifreeze, created according to its technology, allows you to use the additives correctly, without using them in vain, which can double the mileage of the car compared to its analogue.
Interaction with metals
Various metals, including aluminum, are used as a structural material of the engine for the VAZ-2114.
Crystallization schedule
However, such a metal does not combine well with antifreeze when exposed to temperatures exceeding 105 degrees Celsius. This is due to the fact that the additives included in its composition are not able to protect the metal under such heating. What can not be said about antifreeze, because the carboxylate technology does an excellent job at both high and low temperatures.
This table, showing the superiority of antifreeze over antifreeze, is a complete confirmation of this.
It has been proven that antifreeze for the pump is better than antifreeze
Using antifreeze instead of antifreeze can almost double. And this is due to the ability of antifreeze to reduce hydrodynamic cavitation by almost 50%, due to its chemical composition.
A good example of a new and old pump.
Cavitation Is a process that occurs during the movement of the coolant in the system, when, due to constant movement, small gas bubbles first appear and then collapse. And at the moment when they pass through the blades of the pump, hydrodynamic micro-shocks occur, which negatively affect it.
Destruction of water pump blades due to cavitation effect
And with such a prolonged operation, a similar reason can serve as the destruction of parts of the blade. Despite the fact that it is impossible to completely get rid of such a process, the use of antifreeze significantly reduces.
Radiator
Since various silicates are used in the production of antifreeze, they lead to the formation of gel-like particles in the liquid, which can precipitate or settle in the radiator. In this case, you will need, respectively, or. These breakdowns can simply damage the cooling system as a whole, due to a violation of the order of heat exchange.
Inside view of a clogged radiator.
In the production of antifreeze, a similar picture is not observed, the formation of unnecessary parts for the occurrence of blockages is not performed.
Plastic elements
In the cooling system of the VAZ-2114, in addition to metal elements, products made of plastic, rubber, elastomer in the form of pipes, sensors, etc. are actively used. And according to the experiments carried out, the use of antifreeze with open contact with them does not in any way affect the work as a whole. It was found that such a coolant is absolutely neutral and does not oxidize in any way and does not change its properties upon contact.
High temperatures
Despite the fact that most engines, including the VAZ-2114, are designed for an increased load, most types of coolant created using traditional technology begin to lose their properties already at 105 ºС... Whereas antifreezes are able to actively protect the engine until the temperature reaches 135 ° C with pressure in 3 atmosphere.
Of course, no one will bring the motor to such parameters, however, with either a thermostat followed by a boiling of the motor, the use of antifreeze will be justified. Can I have some more .
Impact on the environment
Due to the rare frequency of replacing antifreeze, the amount of liquid to be disposed of is significantly reduced. In addition, it has a much smaller amount harmful substances and elements corresponding to the smallest hazard class for humans and environment, because of this their ecological class is so high.
conclusions
We have described all the reasons why the use of antifreeze in VAZ-2114 engines will be much more effective. After reading this article, you should do right choice and, if necessary, carry out full replacement in your car's cooling system. How to carry out this work correctly is described in detail in this article.
The coolant gradually loses its properties during the operation of the car and requires replacement. Many car owners, having come to the store, cannot decide which liquid to buy, which is better: antifreeze or antifreeze, and if antifreeze, then which one is red, yellow or green.
First of all, you need to understand the terms. The difference between antifreeze and antifreeze is comparable to the difference between a Toyota Camry and a car. Antifreeze is just one of the types of antifreeze, but first things first.
Evolution of coolants
Initially, ordinary water was used to cool the internal combustion engine. Its use was fraught with some difficulties, namely: low boiling point and the ability to freeze at negative temperatures. The latter is especially important in winter time, because frozen water in the cooling system can damage the power unit.
To cope with these shortcomings, other fluids were required. Instead of water, glycerin began to be used with the addition of some additives. This mixture has higher performance characteristics, although shortcomings were soon discovered.
- First, its freezing point is still quite high;
- secondly, the viscosity of glycerin is higher than that of water, and in order to ensure its circulation, additional energy consumption is required, i.e. the efficiency of the engine falls.
Attempts to use methyl alcohol have also been unsuccessful. the main problem lies in the fact that methanol actively reacts with aluminum, as a result, the engine fails due to extensive corrosion. In addition, methyl alcohol is poisonous, and once it enters the human body, it can cause irreversible damage to the nervous and circulatory systems. 5-10 ml is enough for severe poisoning, and 30 ml is fatal. Currently, the use of methanol in the production of coolants is strictly prohibited.
For a long time, ethyl alcohol was included in the composition of antifreezes and antifreezes. Its positive qualities include relative harmlessness to the human body, low viscosity and low freezing point. The low boiling point increased with the addition of additives.
Many modern coolants are based on ethylene glycol. This alcohol has interesting properties. In its pure form, it freezes at -13 degrees Celsius, and its boiling point is 197 degrees. If you dilute it with water, the freezing point decreases and reaches its minimum of -70 degrees with a ratio of ethylene glycol and water of 65% and 35%, respectively, then, as water is added, the freezing point rises again. The composition of antifreeze, as a rule, includes 60% ethylene glycol, it begins to crystallize at -49 degrees.
Composition of modern coolants
All liquids used to fill the vehicle cooling system are based on alcohols. In old cars, where the cylinder block was made of cast iron, and the radiators were made of brass, an aqueous solution of alcohol was used practically without additives, since it did not have a harmful effect on the metal. With the advent of modern engines a problem arose: the heated antifreeze quickly destroyed the walls of the cooling channels. To combat this scourge, various additives were added to the fluid to increase the anti-corrosion properties of antifreeze. 
Depending on the type of additives used, antifreezes are divided into two groups: silicate and carboxylate.
- The former use additives based on inorganic acids (such fluids usually turn green or blue color although there is no hard and fast rule);
- secondly - salts of organic acids (carbonates), the color of these liquids is usually red.
The effect of the additives is that on the surface of the metal in contact with the coolant, a thin layer is formed that is resistant to corrosion and reliably protects the circulation channels from destruction. The difference is that inorganic salts build up and eventually clog the ducts. For this reason, more than one thousand radiators were sent to landfill.
Carboxylate antifreezes are devoid of this drawback - the corrosion inhibitors included in their composition are adsorbed only in the places of its appearance, without clogging the cooling system. In addition to a more gentle effect on the cooling system, fluids of this type have a much longer service life, and if silicate antifreeze, which includes antifreeze, loses its properties after 60 thousand, as evidenced by a change in its color, then high-quality carboxylate antifreezes retain their operational quality up to 250 thousand kilometers.
What is antifreeze
The confusion started at Soviet times when a coolant was developed at GosNIIOKhT, which included a number of additives that could prevent corrosion. The name itself is an abbreviation for Organic Synthesis Technology with the ending -ol, which is added to the name of alcohols in chemical terminology.
For its time, antifreeze was almost a revolutionary antifreeze, and any car owner, when choosing "antifreeze or antifreeze," without hesitation, would have stopped at the first. Everyone, without exception, also knew how to distinguish antifreeze from antifreeze: by color. The development of GosNIIOKhT was painted blue. The name quickly evolved into a household name, and all antifreezes began to be called antifreeze in the USSR.
Can antifreezes be mixed and diluted
The composition of different coolants differs in a set of additives, some of which are capable of reacting with each other. Hence the answer to the question "can antifreezes be mixed": no. This cannot be done, since it threatens chemical reaction with an unknown result. Even the same color of antifreezes does not indicate their compatibility, since manufacturers choose a dye based on their own preferences, and there are no rules that determine which liquid should be painted red and which should be green. 
It is possible to mix antifreeze and antifreeze or two antifreezes only in desperate situations when the liquid level in the cooling system has dropped sharply. In this case, it is also allowed to dilute the liquid with water. By the way, from a chemical point of view, it is safer, since there are no additives in the water.
Replacing antifreeze with antifreeze
Antifreeze costs much longer than antifreeze, however, due to the fact that its resource is several times higher than that of a domestic coolant, the difference in cost is more than pays off, and replacing antifreeze with antifreeze is a completely justified procedure. The main thing is to do everything right.
You should be aware that engines are not designed for any specific antifreeze, so you can use any one. The density of all liquids is approximately the same, regardless of colors. The difference between them may lie in the boiling point, so you should find out this parameter for your engine so as not to accidentally pour low-temperature antifreeze. It is better to give preference to a carboxylate one, since its service life is much longer, although, by and large, this will not affect anything other than the replacement intervals.
After the old coolant has been completely drained from the system, it must be flushed several times with water until the water that flows out is clear. After that, you can fill in fresh antifreeze or antifreeze and hit the road.
Novice car owners of the domestic auto industry, learning the basics of owning a car, often ask various questions about the maintenance and repair of VAZs. One of the most frequent questions regarding the cooling system: which is better - Antifreeze or antifreeze for a VAZ?
Antifreeze or antifreeze for VAZ-2109 and other models
Now let's consider this situation for more modern cars... So, which is better - Antifreeze or antifreeze for VAZ 2109. This can also include similar questions: VAZ-2114 - Antifreeze or antifreeze, VAZ 2115 - Antifreeze or antifreeze.
The situation with these cars is similar to the VAZ-2107 model. That is, Tosol is standard for these cars, but it is also possible to use antifreeze, but only of certain brands.
Replacing fluid on a VAZ-2110
As for the change procedure, we will consider how to replace Antifreeze with VAZ-2110 antifreeze or vice versa:
- The car is installed on the site and cooled;
- The cover of the expansion tank is removed, the stove valve opens, the plugs on the radiator and crankcase are unscrewed, the spent liquid is drained into the container;
- The plugs are replaced and the system is filled with flushing liquid or distillate. The engine starts to circulate the liquid;
- The flushing liquid is drained, and then fresh antifreeze or Antifreeze is poured;
On other specified models, the operation is performed in a similar way.
And as a result, we note that antifreeze is still better than Tosola in its properties, but it also costs more. If you want to take better care of your car, then you should fill in antifreeze, but only of the appropriate brand. But a feature of our car industry is the possibility of system leakage, and it may be expensive to replenish the level of antifreeze.
Antifreeze also does its job well, but it needs to be changed more often, but it costs less.
Video - What is better antifreeze or antifreeze
To begin with, the function of a coolant in internal combustion engines is performed by special compounds known among motorists under the name. The use of distilled water in cooling systems has long been abandoned, since water freezes at negative temperatures, causes increased corrosion of channels in and, becomes the cause of scale formation, etc.
Today, various ANTI-ANTIFREEZES or antifreezes can be available in two versions:
- in the form of a concentrate, which must be additionally diluted with distilled water in specified proportions;
- a ready-to-use product that can be immediately poured into the cooling system without additional manipulations;
In any case, the engine coolant not only protects the motor from and does not freeze in winter (unlike water), but also prevents starting in the fluid system engine cooling active corrosion processes, maintains the cleanliness of the channels, extends the service life of individual elements (, etc.)
It is important to take into account that antifreezes are different in composition, and also lose and change their properties during operation. This means that they cannot be freely mixed. Also, the liquid has a strictly limited service life, that is, it is necessary to periodically replace antifreeze or antifreeze, and also regularly monitor the condition of the coolant.
Read in this article
Car engine coolant: general information
It is well known that an internal combustion engine is a heat engine that converts the energy of a combustion fuel into mechanical work... Naturally, such an installation must be cooled in order to maintain the required thermal regime.
In other words, for normal work of all units and parts under load, the heating of the motor must remain within strictly specified limits. The operating temperature of the engine should not either fall below a predetermined threshold or exceed the calculated value.
To solve the problem on cars, it is used, which is a combination of air and liquid cooling of the internal combustion engine. The fluid system assumes forced circulation working fluid.
With the engine running, the coolant heating can reach up to 100 degrees Celsius and even higher, while after stopping the engine, the liquid cools down to the outside temperature during long periods of inactivity.
As seen, working fluid is in rather difficult conditions. At the same time, special requirements are put forward for it. The fact is that the properties of the liquid should, first of all, ensure the maximum efficiency of the engine cooling system. It directly depends on this. The coolant must have high thermal conductivity and heat capacity, have a high boiling point, and sufficient fluidity.
Moreover, after cooling, such a liquid should not greatly expand in volume and crystallize (turn into ice). In parallel with this, the liquid should also not foam during operation, and also not be aggressive, that is, it should call out corrosion of various metal elements, affect rubber pipes, seals, etc.
Unfortunately, although distilled or purified water is cheap to manufacture and has a number of necessary properties (it has a high ability to efficient cooling, has a high thermal capacity, non-combustible, etc.), but it is still problematic to use it in an engine.
First of all, it has a low boiling point, evaporates quickly, and various impurities in its composition (salts, etc.) cause active scale formation. Also when the outside temperature drops to zero degrees and then ice forms.
In this case, a significant increase in the volume of frozen water occurs, which causes rupture of channels and nozzles, that is, damage occurs, cracks appear in metal parts, etc. For this reason, water cannot be used year-round in regions where winter period a decrease in average daily temperatures to zero and below was noted.
It is quite obvious that it is very difficult to deal with the constant drainage of water from the cooling system before parking the car on the street or in an unheated room. To solve the problem, special coolants have been developed, which have acquired the property of not freezing when low temperatures.
In fact, the very name "antifreeze" comes from the English "antifreeze", that is, non-freezing. These compositions quickly displaced water from liquid cooling systems, thereby greatly simplifying the features of vehicle operation.
As for TOSOL, this development is an analogue of western antifreeze, only it was developed on the territory of the former USSR. The specified type of coolant was originally created for VAZ cars, while the trademark was not registered.
Today, many manufacturers of coolants in the CIS widely use famous name TOSOL for its products, however, the performance properties of fluids may differ due to the presence of different additives and additional components.
Features of antifreeze and practical operation
Note that in the engines of modern cars, antifreeze fluids are most often used, which are based on a glycol base. Simply put, such an antifreeze liquid is a mixture of water and ethylene glycol. There are also coolants that use propylene glycol, while mixing ethylene glycol coolants with propylene glycol is not recommended.
In practice, ethylene glycol or monoethylene glycol is a yellowish oily liquid. The liquid is odorless, has a low viscosity, has an average density and a boiling point of about 200 degrees Celsius. At the same time, the crystallization (freezing) temperature is slightly less than -12 degrees.
If ethylene glycol or an ethylene glycol / water solution is heated, significant expansion occurs. To prevent the system from "bursting" from overpressure, a "min" and "max" mark was added to the device. The required coolant level is determined from them.
It is also important to consider that ethylene glycol and its solutions are very aggressive and can cause severe corrosion of parts made of steel, aluminum, cast iron, copper or brass. In parallel with this, there is an increased toxicity of ethylene glycol and its extremely negative effect on living organisms. In other words, it is a powerful and dangerous poison!
As for propylene glycols, they have similar properties to ethylene glycols, but they are not as toxic. However, propylene glycol is much more expensive to manufacture, with the result that its final cost is significantly higher. Also, at low temperatures, propylene glycol becomes more viscous, its fluidity is worse.
For the above reasons, a whole package of active additional additives is necessarily used in the composition of the coolant, which provide anti-corrosion, protective and detergent properties, prevent foaming, stabilize the liquid, tint the solution, give a characteristic recognizable odor, etc. Also, the additives somewhat reduce toxicity.
Let's go back to using antifreeze. The need to mix ethylene glycol or propylene glycol with distilled water is dictated by the fact that the freezing point of such a solution directly depends on the proportions of these two components.
In simple words, water freezes at zero, ethylene glycol at -12, however, mixing them in different proportions makes it possible to create solutions in which the freezing threshold is from 0 to -70 degrees and even higher. Also, the ratio of glycol to water affects the boiling point of the solution.
Without going into details, in practice, the lowest freezing point can be achieved if the composition contains a little less than 67% ethylene glycol, which is diluted with 33% water. In this case, the same or very close freezing point can be obtained with different ratios of water and concentrate.
Concerning practical operation As a rule, motorists, when replacing coolant in many regions, often use a simple scheme, diluting the antifreeze concentrate with water in proportions of 60/40. Please note, this is a general guide, before preparing the solution, read the individual recommendations of a particular manufacturer of antifreeze on the packaging.
To check the ratio of ethylene glycol to water in the solution, the density is additionally measured. For this, a hydrometer is most often used. Based on the data obtained, we can conclude about the content of ethylene glycol and determine the crystallization temperature.
Mixing of antifreeze and TOSOL
It should be noted that the compatibility of various coolants depends on the technical conditions of their manufacture. In simple terms, fluids can be completely incompatible, or only partial compatibility is allowed.
The fact is that each manufacturer uses different additives that can react, thereby the mixture loses the necessary properties, precipitation occurs and a number of other undesirable consequences.
Taking into account the fact that during operation periodically there is a need to raise the coolant level in expansion tank(the water in the composition boils away over time), it is more correct to top up with distilled water or use only the brand and type of antifreeze that was used previously.
If an emergency malfunction occurs, then it is optimal or completely to drain the existing residues, flush the system and fill in fresh coolant in full, or add antifreeze that matches the color and properties.
As for the norms and standards, as a rule, domestic TOSOLs must comply with the requirements of GOST, while they are not separately certified. Imported antifreezes are standardized by SAE and ASTM.
Foreign standards define different properties of fluids based on ethylene or propylene glycol, defining the purpose, taking into account the operating conditions. Liquids are divided into compositions for passenger cars, small trucks, heavy vehicles, special equipment, etc. Note that antifreezes according to ASTM type D 3306 are allowed for use on domestic passenger vehicles.
You should also take into account the individual specifications of the automakers themselves, which often put forward a number of their own requirements. In the list of various prescriptions of large concerns, it should be noted that the use of antifreezes is prohibited or highly discouraged, in which the presence of all kinds of corrosion inhibitors is noted, including nitrites, phosphates, etc.
This also determines the maximum content of silicates, chlorides and other components in the coolant. Adherence to these guidelines allows you to extend the life of the seals, avoid active scale formation, and increase the level of protection against corrosion.
When and why antifreeze replacement is needed
As already mentioned, antifreezes can have a negative effect on the parts of the cooling system and the engine itself. Various additives are used to reduce this effect. However, during operation, these additives are "triggered", that is, the content of the additives and their efficiency are reduced.
If it is simple, over time, corrosion processes are activated, the coolant begins to foam more strongly, the heat removal deteriorates, the temperature regime is violated during ICE operation... For this reason, it is recommended to change antifreezes after 2 years, or every 50-60 thousand km. mileage (whichever comes first).
As for modern developments such as G12 and G12 + antifreezes, the service life of these fluids has been extended to 3-4 years, but their higher cost can be considered a disadvantage.
Also, the engine coolant needs to be replaced in cases where exhaust gases from the cylinders have entered the cooling system or traces are visible in the antifreeze / antifreeze engine oil... As a rule, the cause of such malfunctions is a punched cylinder head gasket, cracks in the BC or cylinder head. In any case, the coolant in such conditions will quickly lose its useful properties.
The following signs indicate the need to replace the coolant:
- appearance in the expansion tank;
- discoloration of the coolant, the appearance of a burnt odor;
- with a slight decrease in the outside temperature, a sediment is visible in the tank, antifreeze becomes jelly-like, etc.
- , the fan of the cooling system is constantly running, the motor is on the verge of overheating;
- antifreeze has acquired a brownish-brown color, became cloudy. This suggests that the fluid has exhausted its resource, the additives do not fulfill their function, and active corrosion of elements and parts takes place inside the cooling system.
We also note that in the event of an emergency, it is often necessary to add coolant from another manufacturer to antifreeze, distilled water of dubious quality, or ordinary running water. In such cases, it is necessary to get to the place of repair, carry out all the work, after which it is imperative to flush the cooling system and only after that completely replace the antifreeze.
- As for the process itself, you only need to change the coolant on a cold engine. After the engine has cooled down, you need to unscrew the expansion tank cap or radiator cap.
- Next, you need to open the radiator valve of the interior heater (stove radiator). This is necessary in order to remove possible liquid residues in the radiator and the pipes to it.
- Then you should unscrew the drain plugs in the radiator of the car's cooling system, as well as the plug in the cylinder block.
- After that, the coolant is drained into a previously prepared container, after which the plugs can be tightened.
Please note that when working with coolant, it is important to understand that ethylene glycol is a strong poison, and can also enter the body even through the skin. A small dose of ethylene glycol when taken orally is enough for severe poisoning and death!
Also, ethylene glycol has a sweetish taste, it must be kept out of the reach of children. Do not spill ethylene glycol or propylene glycol as the liquid is dangerous to animals. Do not pour antifreeze into water bodies, pour it onto the ground or down the drain!
- The final stage will be filling the expansion tank with fresh liquid. Fill in coolant slowly and carefully to avoid the formation of air congestion in system.
- At the end of the procedure, the tank and / or radiator cap is screwed on, then the engine can be started. After starting, the unit warms up at XX to working temperature(on many cars before the fan blows).
- Now the engine needs to be stopped and allowed to cool down, after which the tank cap is opened again and the coolant is topped up according to the level (in case of its decrease).
If we talk about flushing the cooling system and radiator, during scheduled regular replacements of antifreeze of the same brand / type, then it will be enough to flush the entire system with ordinary distilled water. As a last resort, you can boil running water in advance, and then use it for rinsing.
In cases when the transition from TOSOL to antifreeze is carried out, from water to TOSOL, from antifreeze of one color to another type of coolant, or the dirty antifreeze is simply changing, etc., then the system needs to be cleaned more thoroughly. This means that it will be necessary to separately remove possible or obvious deposits, scale, rust, decomposition products of additives in old antifreeze, etc.
As a rule, special ready-made compositions for cleaning the engine cooling system are used for cleaning. Such compositions are complex, have corrosion inhibitors, and remove scale and deposits well. Also, motorists for washing use various aqueous-acid solutions of self-preparation, however, the use of such solutions on modern internal combustion engines is not recommended.
The general procedure for flushing the cooling system is as follows:
- after draining the coolant from the system, filling is performed flushing fluid... Then the engine is started, after which the unit operates for a certain amount of time (usually 20-40 minutes).
- Further, the flushing is drained, assessing the degree of contamination of the drained liquid. The procedure is repeated until the resulting wash is clear.
- At the end, distilled water is poured into the system, the engine warms up again to operating temperatures, then the water is drained. This is necessary to remove rinsing residues. Then you can fill in fresh antifreeze without the risk of losing its properties as a result of contact with rinsing residues.
- We also note that although it is possible to wash out the remains of the cleaner in the cooling system at one time, experienced drivers recommend flushing the system with distilled water at least twice.
During operation, the level of antifreeze in the expansion tank decreases even when the system is tight. The point is that water evaporation takes place. You need to add distilled water to the tank (in extreme cases, ordinary and well-boiled water for at least 30-40 minutes).
If there is a leak of antifreeze, then it is no longer possible to compensate for the losses with water alone. In other words, you need to top up the coolant, taking into account the fact that many coolants do not mix with each other.
It is optimal to have concentrate and distilled water in stock for topping up, mixing liquids in the proportion indicated by the manufacturer. As for ready-made antifreezes, try to avoid purchasing such compounds at car markets or from individuals who sell similar products along the highways.
Frequent cases were noted when instead of coolant, tinted running water, antifreeze treatment, etc. were sold. For this reason, the right decision would be to buy coolant from specialized car dealerships.
We also note that it is forbidden to use pure concentrate undiluted with water in the engine cooling system. As already mentioned, ethylene glycol with a package of additives freezes at negative temperatures of about -12 degrees.
It turns out that the concentrate will simply freeze in the system, since without dilution with water it cannot be considered a ready-to-use product. As for the proportions, it is necessary to study the label on the concentrate package. Usually, manufacturers themselves indicate separately what to pour into the radiator or tank on different cars how much concentrate and water you need, and how to mix them in order to obtain the desired freezing point of the coolant.
In parallel, we note that cases of fake antifreeze of well-known brands have become more frequent in the CIS. For this reason, inspect the canister carefully. The container must be of high quality, all stickers and labels must have a clear font and be located evenly on the canister.
The canister must indicate the batch number, the manufacturer, as well as recommendations on how to properly dilute the antifreeze (in the case of a concentrate) or use a ready-made product. The boiling point, freezing point, date of manufacture, expiration date and other important information are also indicated.
The cork also deserves special attention. Typically, manufacturers use disposable seal caps. Additionally, for better protection against counterfeiting, there may be a hologram sticker, etc.
It is necessary to make sure that the seal is intact, the toothed ring should fit snugly against the neck, not twist. The lid itself should not be glued to the neck. Also, the canister must be sealed, no liquid leaks or air escaping from under the lid when turning or pressing is allowed.
Finally, we note that many manufacturers use containers made of transparent or translucent plastic, allowing you to assess the color and condition of the liquid in the canister. When shaking the coolant canister, foam should form, which settles after a couple of seconds in the canister with the liquid ready for use, as well as after 4-5 seconds. in the case of undiluted concentrate.
If, upon examination, it is noticed that the liquid has become cloudy, the foaming is high, a sediment is visible at the bottom, or the general color of the antifreeze is suspicious, then it is better to refrain from such a purchase.
