LT1-LT4 Modifications 1993-97 Gen II Small Block V8

type of water

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Old Jan 5, 2007 | 12:19 PM
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I read that it is better to use distilled water in a cooling system instead of tap water. Is this true ???why? or is there something better to use?
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Old Jan 5, 2007 | 12:35 PM
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Distilled water doesnt carry the impurties that tap water does, also has to do with the ionization of the water may corrode radiators. Personally Ive always used tap water, never an issue.
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Old Jan 5, 2007 | 03:11 PM
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I'd be worried about the tap water clogging up or rusting my radiator. I use 60/40 coolant to water and I only use distilled water. It's less than $1/gallon, why not?
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Old Jan 5, 2007 | 04:16 PM
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I use the Prestone pre-mixed stuff. They use distilled water and the mix is always just right.
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Old Jan 5, 2007 | 04:20 PM
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Originally Posted by Paul Bell
I use the Prestone pre-mixed stuff. They use distilled water and the mix is always just right.
That's the easy way, but it's much more expensive. If you think about it, you're getting half the coolant for the same price. I've even seen it more expensive. Just add $2 of distilled water or nearly free tap water and you've got the same thing. All you have to do is measure. 50/50 is also the limit of what you should run. I'm surprised you've never had a problem in those cold winters. I think anyone in the colder areas should use no less than 70/30 in the winter. Only reason I don't run less than 50/50 is because the coolant helps keep my radiator from rusting.
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Old Jan 5, 2007 | 06:38 PM
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You need to use distilled water for batteries. The cooling system is ok with tap water, but you can use distilled if you want.
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Old Jan 6, 2007 | 06:08 PM
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Tap water from state to state varies, here in CA the tap water has a high mineral content. Distilled water is cheap insurance.
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Old Jan 6, 2007 | 06:09 PM
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Originally Posted by seawolf06
I'd be worried about the tap water clogging up or rusting my radiator. I use 60/40 coolant to water and I only use distilled water. It's less than $1/gallon, why not?
I believe the ideal coolant percentage is 50%:

"A 50-50 mix of ethylene glycol antifreeze and water will protect against freezing down to minus 34 degrees Fahrenheit. If you need greater low-temp protection, a higher percentage of antifreeze is called for, but the experts say to avoid concentrations greater than 60/40.



The ideal concentration is 50/50 unless you live in an area where the level of protection 50/50 provides, (-34 degrees F.) is not adequate. Up to 60 percent concentration can be used, which protects down to -65 degrees. To increase antifreeze level, drain some coolant and add straight antifreeze. To decrease, drain some coolant and add de-ionized water or tap water whose mineral concentration meets the engine maker’s standards."

Last edited by obe1 95Z28; Jan 6, 2007 at 06:24 PM.
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Old Jan 6, 2007 | 06:33 PM
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Back of the container recommends 50/50 or 70/30. Antifreeze is an additive for your cooling system. It inhibits corrosion, lowers the freezing point and raises the boiling point of the water. I use tap water in a 70/30 mix. no problems here.
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