Coolant

[Stratman]

I'm doing a complete coolant change as its never been done before. Existing coolant is blue (original). Halfords have two types, the cheaper one is blue and is "also suitable for aluminium engines". The more expensive one is red and is "Especially suitable for aluminium engines". Both corrosion inhibited ethylene glycol.

One of my cars uses the "red" type though the previous engine model used "blue" and you shouldn't mix them.

As I'm doing a complete change/flush, the red one should be ok or better, shouldn't it?

[AMCQ46]

Do a full flush, and remember to remove the drain bolt from the front cyl above the starter motor. Then use the top spec red one.

You will find if you buy the concentrate antifreeze and a big container of distilled water it works out cheaper

[Stratman]

Do a full flush, and remember to remove the drain bolt from the front cyl above the starter motor. Then use the top spec red one.

You will find if you buy the concentrate antifreeze and a big container of distilled water it works out cheaper

Cheers. I've already bought it as you describe and have just done some more Googling - I think it's the mixing of the two types which can cause problems but as I'm changing it completely the red seems to offer protection for longer.