Volvo or ? Antifreeze?

Post by **dcarlson12** » 04 Aug 2011, 13:50

Replaced the thermostat and ECT sensor on 97 850 T5. Approx. 100,000 km
We are second owner so don't have history on age of coolant.
I did notice that the screws retaining the thermostat housing had already been changed to coated steel screws (Torx 40) which I gather were not original on this year or ?
Only thing that worried me a bit was tightening the ECT sensor. The 19mm combination wrench which I used supplies a lot of torque in my hands and I hope I didn't start to twist it off. i.e. It is hard to judge how much force is needed to crush the aluminum washer to ensure a leak free installation without twisting off the thin brass ECT sensor.....

The coolant was an opaque greenish colour. i.e. obviously had deteriorated to some degree....
Probably needs to be changed.
Is it best to use the Volvo antifreeze or are other types ok also? If so, what other types. And I guess it best to never mix different types?

Harpoon · Post by **Harpoon** » 04 Aug 2011, 14:13

Hello; I would drain the system by opening the radiator drain on the bototm of the radiator. You can use Volvo or other Volvo approved coolants such as Zerex G-05 anitfreeze which your parts store should have on hand. Safe Driving!

Post by **Ozark Lee** » 04 Aug 2011, 14:16

The Blue Volvo stuff is always OK but it is expensive. I personally use Zerex G05. It meets all of the Volvo specifications (Phosphate Free and HOAT) and is normally about 1/2 the price of the Volvo coolant from the dealer.

I drain the entire system when replacing the coolant but I do so by taking the lower radiator hose off. The drain plug is very fragile and there have been many cases where the socket breaks off and then you are looking at a new radiator.

...Lee

Post by **dcarlson12** » 04 Aug 2011, 14:23

What color is the Zerex G05? Just wondering what is in there now....?

Harpoon · Post by **Harpoon** » 04 Aug 2011, 14:42

It is more clear than anything.

Post by **vjaneczko** » 04 Aug 2011, 15:43

Anyone ever add some dye to the fluid to make it easy to see in the overflow tank?

Post by **bigdaddylee82** » 04 Aug 2011, 17:20

I use the Green stuff, Peak or O'Reilly Brand. 50/50 with water. I see it just fine.

- Lee

SimLyons · Post by **SimLyons** » 04 Aug 2011, 17:35

I just changed both my cars 2 days ago to the Zerex G05. It looks like very weak urine. I added no coloring but it dies show up OK in the overflow tank. Doubt it would hurt for some food coloring to be added. (My original "Blue" Volvo was a little cloudy blue/green).