Extended use anti-freeze

[DavidComando]

I am in the process of cleaning and reinstalling the heat-exchanger. Has any north-east, (or north-west) sailor installed the "extended use" anti-freeze? It is supposed to be good for 5 years. I didn't upgrade the 2" diameter heat exchanger for the 3" as the 2" looked in good shape. I wouldn't mind not messing with the anti-freeze for a while! Any thing else I should be aware of as I attempt this?
Dave

[jentine]

I almost hate to admit this, but I have never changed the original anti-freeze that came in the engine.  I have added to it on occasion, but never changed it.  It is the same green color as that in the bottle.  I guess that this is part of my preventative maintenance plan.  "If it isn't broken, don't fix it."

Jim Kane

[DavidComando]

Thanks for the advice. I think I'll stick to the regular Prestone as Ron mentioned. The PO did install a coolant recovery system, along with many other upgrades. I hope that boiling out the heat exchanger(it sounded like a castanette!), a new 160 degree thermostat, and new antifreeze keeps the engine running between 160-180. Thanks for the input.
Dave

[Stu Jackson]

Dave

The reason it sounded like a castanette was because the crud was in the other end of the HX than the end where the cap is.

Check the inlet tubes for build up of crud and clean them out.

Unless the material you used disintegrates th crud, it'll still be there.  Make sure you shake it hard and that it is not making musical sounds before you reinstall it.

I used to have to turn mine upside down and poke into it with screwdriver to break the hardened material up and get it into small enough pieces so it would all drop out of the hole where the hose attaches.

Gave that up and bought the 3" HX last year, as written up here previously.

Good luck,

Stu