Radiator Fluid Testing

[Scott]

Henry Great question. I guess it depends on what you are testing for.
If you are testing for temperature coverage then a simple tester from
any auto parts store would work.

If you are testing the condition of the antifreeze as it relates to
chemical make up then there are test strips you can purchase at the
local Napa, Cat Store, Truck repair facility. I generally go to the
CAT store here and pick up a few while having service done and test
it myself. You will be testing for Ph, Nitrites, and Nitrates.

Most of the forum members simply test for Ph which while certainly
important, not the only thing that should be tested. Generally, Ph
will tell the condition of the antifreeze and whether or not it needs
to have an additive, or whether it simply needs to be
flushed/replaced. IMO the more damaging issues are the Nitrites and
Nitrates, these two need to be within a range to help
eliminate "cavitation" inside the motor. Cavitation can pit cylander
walls and destroy the motor from inside out. I have seen cavitation
totally destroy stainless steel propellors on boats. (prop burn) The
tiny bubbles act like lots of little hammers on surfaces destroying
them over time. Test the antifreeze with the test strips and adjust
accordingly.

You can buy a bottle of test strips but I think you get like 100 in a
bottle which is probably a lifetime supply. Not to mention shelf
life. Thats why I try to get a couple and test while having annual
service.

Hope this helps

Scott B
86FC35 4SALE
SC

--- In WanderlodgeForum@yahoogroups.com, "Henry F. Claeys"
wrote:
>
> (1) I'm planning to test my radiator's fluid for the first time.
What
> type of tester is recommended, where to purchase, and what exactly
am I
> testing for? (2) When testing the radiator fluid in the Kohler
> generator should I be looking for similar or different test results
as
> compared with the main engine? Henry Claeys 1979 FC 35 Cat 3208
N.A.,
> Austin, Tx. henry@...
>