10Prestone TSB for Training130009252017

Technical Service Bulletin Page 10 PCTSB-2017-01 PRESTONE PRODUCTS CORPORATION 1900 West Field Court, Lake Forest, IL 60045 ©2017 Prestone Products Corporation Importance of Water Quality Testing Water Source When you use water to mix with antifreeze/coolant concentrate it is critical that the water be of the appropriate quality. Why should you check water quality? The quality of water can have a negative effect on the life and performance of the antifreeze/coolant by introducing excessive levels of corrosive ions, hard water salts, or pH destabilizing materials. Water quality is critical in order to prevent scale build-up and ensure that important chemicals in antifreeze/coolant mix- tures perform as expected and do not drop out of solution. Hardness Levels Water hardness level is determined by calcium and magnesium carbonate ion content. When water with high hardness is used in cooling systems, scale can form on cooling system surfaces and prevent efficient heat transfer. The net result can be excessive heat buildup leading to overheating, oil degradation, etc. pH Levels pH should remain in the appropriate range at all times. A pH that is too low or too high can destabilize the coolant inhibitor package causing the inhibitors to fall out of solution and in some cases form unstable gels. Any lost inhibitors can shorten the life of the coolant and reduce the corrosion protection provided by the coolant. If the pH of your water is too high or too low it should not be used to mix with antifreeze concentrates. Chloride Levels High chloride levels in water (sodium chloride) can increase the corrosion rate of aluminum and iron metal surfaces resulting in the depletion of important corrosion inhibitors out of the coolant. The net result is a reduction of corrosion protection of the engine cooling system. TEST INSTRUCTIONS Collect a water sample in a clean cup (about 8 oz.). Water sample must be between 50°F (10°C) and 130°F (54°C). Remove a strip from the bottle, DO NOT touch the pads at the end of the strip. Dip the strip in water sample for 5 seconds with a gentle, back and forth motion. Remove and shake strip briskly to remove excess liquid. Wait 25 seconds, then match Hardness and Chloride to the color chart. Match pH colors at 1 minute. When utilizing Test Strips do not use the above color chart. Use the color chart on the Test Strip Bottle or individual card.