Anti-freeze / inhibitor in Volvo 2003T

[whiteoaks7]

I want anti-freeze for the VP2003T. I also want an inhibitor. According to Halfords antifreeze changed its formulation back in 1995 (shows when I last looked at the can!) and is identified by its pretty pink colour. So Q1: is the new formula okay in a VP engine of 1992 vintage?

What I really want is an inhibitor which the new formulation is supposed to include BUT Q2: is there an inhibitor I can buy separate to anti-freeze for example like central heating inhibitor? The worry I have about the new formulation (a bit belatedly perhaps) is whether it will attack VP seals, hoses and the like...

Both new and old are ethylene glycol but the can doesn't identify what else is now in the mix.

David Berry

 

[pvb]

Modern antifreeze, so-called OAT (organic acid technology), might possibly adversely affect seals, although it's far from certain. If you want to play safe, buy olde style antifreeze (silicate technology). You mentioned Halfords, they sell Comma XStream G48 antifreeze, which is silicate based. You don't need a separate inhibitor.

 

[VicS]

Modern antifreeze, so-called OAT (organic acid technology), might possibly adversely affect seals, although it's far from certain. If you want to play safe, buy olde style antifreeze (silicate technology). You mentioned Halfords, they sell Comma XStream G48 antifreeze, which is silicate based. You don't need a separate inhibitor.

Or Halfords own brand Their "advanced" is OAT. Their standard stuff is low silicate, sometimes call inorganic acid technology and is sold for cars pre 1996.
OAT is also sometimes described as "long life" because it does not need to be changed frequently like the silicate type


I dont think it's seals that are affected 'cos they are both indeed ethylene glycol based. I think is the metals used in the system that are critical. I think the OAT type is not suitable for old type copper radiators, ( new rads are aluminium) but like pvb not absolutey sure,

I agree with pvb to stick with the old non OAT type

The differnce between the types is the inhibitors they contain . The types must not be mixed!

 

[whiteoaks7]

Thank you folks - 'old' seems strangely appropriate...

David

 

[pvb]

It's a good engine! If it's like mine it's a bit smokey, probably, but powerful and reliable.
.