Usage:
All Engine Cooling Systems Using Coolant Conditioners
- SUPPLEMENT: 08/00/86
TRUCK ENGINE NEWS, JUNE 1986, PAGE 3, "Nitrate Test Kit Available For Cooling Systems". Put a mark through the word "nitrate" in the title and text of this article. The correct word is "NITRITE".
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Too much use of cooling system conditioners can add enough nitrates to the coolant to cause failure of some parts in the cooling system. An 8T5296 Coolant Conditioner Test Kit is now available to check nitrate levels in cooling systems. See illustration.
The 8T5296 Coolant Conditioner Test Kit.
The test kit contains all the equipment and chemicals necessary to determine the percentage of coolant conditioner in any cooling system using water only, or a water and ethylene glycol mixture. The procedure consists of two easy tests that can be completed in about 5 minutes.
The first test is to determine the percentage of ethylene glycol in the coolant. An inexpensive specific gravity tester is included for this purpose. This tester will tell if the percentage of ethylene glycol is below 30%, between 30% and 60%, or above 60%. This reading will determine which chart to use later in the test. Two charts are provided, one for below 30% of ethylene glycol and another for between 30% and 60% ethylene glycol. Percentages above 60% are generally not recommended. (For accurate determination of freeze point, use the 5P957 or 5P3514 Coolant and Battery Testers.)
The second test is a titration process that determines the level of nitrates. Using a chart as part of this second test, you can determine the level or range of nitrates caused by the conditioner in the system. There are five ranges: no coolant conditioner, under concentration of coolant conditioner, the recommended 3-6% concentration of conditioner, overconcentration of coolant conditioner, and excessive coolant conditioner.
A step-by-step instruction card is included in each kit. This card also contains the interpretation charts and gives some general maintenance recommendations. For more information regarding cooling system maintenance, refer to the pamphlet, "Know Your Cooling System", SEBD0518-04.
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Solution (A) in the kit is a weak solution of sulfuric acid and may be irritating to skin and eyes. In case of contact, flush with water for 15 minutes. Seek medical attention if irritation persists.
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