using only water as engine coolant

[chesstompowell]

Hi guys,

Sorry, I've tried doing a search on this topic to no avail, so here goes:
Is it advisable under any circumstance to use only water for the engine coolant?

[msm20032003]

ummm NO

[Cyorke]

Only in an emergency situation. NOt for any extended period of time. IF you have to do it make sure you get it replaced as soon as possible. Here is a brief explanation of why from www.howstuffworks.com .

http://auto.howstuffworks.com/cooling-system3.htm

[WhiteRabbit]

just dont do it in below freezing temps, theres a reason why its called antifreeze =)

[kamesama980]

itll work...but no long trips, no cold weather, no hot weather, and get it right ASAP

[kenny1773]

There are only two downsides

1. corrosion
2. freezing

Otherwise pure water will actually tranfer heat faster than a water/anti freeze mix does.

Yes antifreeze does raise the boiling point of water, but not by much. It is really the pressure added to the cooling system that keeps the coolant from boiling.

Some guys run Redline's water wetter mixed with pure water when they are at the race track - no antifreeze at all in the system.

[Hajoca]

The coolant contains corrosion inhibitors, and lubricant for the water pump. Water does not.

Coolant (EG) actualy lowers the surface tension of the water, and makes it a better 'wetter'

Redline's product is going to do that as well.

What are you trying to accomplish?

[chesstompowell]

Hey thanks guys. I guess I'll stick with my green coolant.

[zoni]

there is a big debate about coolant water mix ratios... i like 40%Coolant 60% water in the summer... 60%Coolant 40% water in the winter.

you all also forgot about boiling... the coolant makes it so the water doesnt boil at operating temps.

[Camry92LE]

Originally Posted by chesstompowell

Hi guys,

Sorry, I've tried doing a search on this topic to no avail, so here goes:
Is it advisable under any circumstance to use only water for the engine coolant?

Actually.. if that's the only thing you got it's no biggy. I would Advise not to though. In the winter and cold temps the water is going to freeze.

[ShawnM]

Actually Kenny is right on that one. The increase in pressure is what keeps it from boiling, not the antifreeze itself. Ever see an engine that sat in the cold with nothing but straight water in it? Its a sad sight. If your lucky it'll just be the freeze plugs that blow out. Saw one back in college that blew out the freeze plugs and cracked the engine block. It dropped to below freezing over night.

[95camguy]

[QUOTE=kenny1773]There are only two downsides

1. corrosion
2. freezing

Otherwise pure water will actually tranfer heat faster than a water/anti freeze mix does.

/[QUOTE]



what he said

[camlex]

Ethylene Glycol also works as water pump lubricant.

[chesstompowell]

Thanks for the aditional info guys. Much appreciated.

One more question: They recommend a 50/50 or 60/40 or even a 70/30 coolant to water mix. Would a 80/20 or higher be bad for an engine?

[tonyreo]

Some good information:

http://autorepair.about.com/library/.../bldef-033.htm