Coolant question

redspiderveloce · #1 (**permalink**) 01-30-2007, 04:47 PM

My 87 seems to have a radiator leak. ghnl saw it a while back. I replaced the cap because it was pretty corroded looking, but the new one (same size as old) did not want to go on because of the clamp that hold hose on near the cap. I got it almost all the way on but the clip is in the way. It looks like there is between a quarter and half inch more it can turn. The antifreeze water mix is looking low. I have some anti-freeze in the garage, but does it matter if it is the same kind that is already in it? Seems like all are a 50/50 mix of water and anti-freeze. Could something go wrong if they are different types?

Thanks,
Andy

**ghnl** · #2 (**permalink**) 01-30-2007, 05:04 PM

Can you move the clamp a bit so the cap will fit easier? I recall that on our '84 I had to position the clamp just right so the screw portion would allow the cap to turn all the way.

It should be OK to mix different brands of antifreeze in an emergency. It won't all turn to jello for example. But you might lose some benefits - for example if you add regular antifreeze to 'long life' antifreeze the you no longer have long life antifeeze.

If you don't know what's in there or how long it's been in there, I'd suggest draining and flushing so you can start fresh. Neglecting the coolant can quickly make you a DPO (D@mn Previous Owner)...

BTW, did you repair or replace the radiator?

redspiderveloce · #3 (**permalink**) 01-30-2007, 05:44 PM

I haven't repaired/replaced yet. I was hoping a new cap might stop the leak, but I haven't been able to run her enough to get the engine nice and hot. I hit operating temp the other day and didn't see anything but didn't see anything. My next step is to flush and refill, take her for a real run, and then see if it could have been the cap. Probably just wishful thinking on my part...

Thanks,
Andy

Also, what type of anti-freeze is best in a Spider?