question about non-ethyl coolant and tech inspection

Discussion in 'STT Eastern' started by GTF Ray, May 25, 2010.

  1. GTF Ray

    GTF Ray n00b

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    So the other day I drained and flushed my coolant and replaced it with Prestone Low Tox since I've read elsewhere on the forum that this is an acceptable alternative to Engine Ice, etc.. Well this stuff looked just like regular ethyl glycol antifreeze, so if the tech inspectors wanted to check the coolant for compliance, it doesn't seem like a simple visual would work. Is tech aware that Low Tox looks just like regular antifreeze? I just want to avoid any trouble making it through tech on Monday. Thanks!
     
  2. Gunshow Nick

    Gunshow Nick Northern Director

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    The policy reads:
    6) Advanced and Intermediate group riders must use water, water wetter or a non-ethyl glycol based anti-freeze/coolant. Approved Poly Glycol brands are: Evans, 7th Gear, Liquid Performance, and Engine Ice.

    Personally, I'd stay within the guidelines we operate under. It resolves any issues.

    Yes, it does look the same, but it's a world of difference in clean up.
     
  3. Tdub

    Tdub SayWhat??

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    The Glycol is what is hard to clean up, doesnt matter if it is ethylene or propolene. And evens is the worst as it is almost staright glycol. I understand the rules, just saying.... Tdub
     
  4. rabbit

    rabbit n00b

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    Does anybody make an anti-freeze that's tech compliant? Engine ice, water wetter, etc are all for heat and pump lubrication. I want something I can leave in the block all winter.
     
  5. on2wheels

    on2wheels Rides with no training wheels

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    Engine Ice is fine for winter protection. From the Engine Ice web site:

    Is it an antifreeze?
    Yes, Engine Ice Hi-Performance Coolant is an antifreeze offering freeze protection to -26oF (26 degrees below zero)
     
  6. Capt. Home Slice

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  7. GTF Ray

    GTF Ray n00b

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    what I read in other posts on this forum was that Prestone Low Tox was the same stuff as Engine Ice (poly glycol) for way less $$$ ($13/gal vs. $30/.5 gal) and other posters recommended the Prestone (despite that it's not specifically called out by name in the 'approved' list on the regulations page)...hence I went with the Prestone. I just want to make sure I don't fail tech because my coolant looks like regular antifreeze.

    Engine Ice and Prestone Low Tox are exactly that...they are good down to about -26F...that's why I put it in the bike...I wanted something I could leave in year round.
     
  8. rabbit

    rabbit n00b

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    Yes, I had a brain freeze (no pun intended). I was looking for a non-glycol alternative. PG is fine, but it's really the glycol that makes it slippery.

    FWIW Sierra has been my choice for years for environmental reasons and is a PG AF. Same stuff as the Prestone I'd imagine.
     
  9. High Lonesome

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    Water (deionized) or water + Water Wetter - No fuss, no mess, no worries. It takes 30 minutes tops to change coolant. Just do it. You don't want to be "that guy." My R6 runs 10 degrees cooler with water/Water Wetter than with 1:1 ethylene glycol/water.
     
  10. rabbit

    rabbit n00b

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    Running straight water now. Have to get some wetter in there for the pump seals. Just wondering if there was something I could leave in over winter. Thanks.

    Found a product called IceClear HD. Non-glycol, enviro safe, biodegradable, non-nitrite. Sounds too good to be true. So far I haven't found out much more, but it looks interesting.
     
  11. High Lonesome

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    I switch back to ethylene glycol/water for winter storage. Call me crazy, but I enjoy bike maintenance.
     

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