I recently purchased a 1988 Olds 98 Regency. The manual states " use antifreeze meeting GM Specification 1825-M - specifically formulated for aluminum component protection." I purchased Prestone GM Dexcool 50/50 Antifreeze. Is this okay for my car? Thanks
Regular green run of the mill coolant is what we used at the dealer back then. I wouldnt put Dexcool in there.
transman
I took it back and bought the Prestone 50/50 for all makes/models/and mix with any color antifreeze. Thanks for your help!
Are you doing a drain and flush? I would take that stuff back and get some Zerex Original Green (http://www.valvoline.com/zerex/pdf/Zerex_CoolantChart.pdf?coaid=1B5D1AEA1AFC). Why buy 50%? It can be had at NAPA.
You’re right. I checked the link, and I do want a coolant that meets GM requirements for this model. I am taking the coolant back and heading to NAPA. Thanks for the tip.
You don’t need to. Antifreeze technology has improved a lot since 1988. The new HOAT antifreezes, which the Prestone Long Life for all makes/models/ mixes with any color is actually your best choice for your vehicle. The old “green” antifreezes had a lot of borates in them that ate up the water pump vanes and seals, that is why Dexcool was developed.
The problem with Dexcool in your vehicle is that it may not be compatible with some of your gaskets in the engine. The coolant you bought is the best of both worlds, no borates and fully compatible with your seals and gaskets.
Do a simple drain and refill. Drain the block too if you can find the drain. Its best not to do any flush, certainly do not use any flush chemicals.