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Is there any reason why I couldn''t use windshield washer fluid to winterize the raw water side of my fresh water cooled Yanmar? It is a lot cheaper, and protects to very low temperatures. I''m in Virginia, where winter temperatures are normally moderate.
Windsheild washer fluid, although cheaper than non-toxic engine antifreeze and having anti-freeze characteristics, will not protect the iron components of the raw water section of your engine from corrosion.
This is my first year owning a diesel, so I used the good stuff to winterize my engine, but a lot of people use RV antifreeze. Is it any better than windshield washer fluid, or does it have the same deficiency?
Good question . . . I would suspect RV/Marine antifreeze to have a lower freeze point than washer fluid and is non-toxic, since it''s developed for use in pressurized onboard water systems . . . not that that matters any with a boat engine. However, all boaters should ensure that whatever is added to fill the engine block over the winter, is non-toxic. Good for the environment & safe for the critters & pets that may consume it.
Aside from that, there dosen''t appear to be any other advantages over washer fluid.
I only use marine engine, non-toxic stuff in my diesel''s raw water section, since it possesses anti-corrosion ingredients. The cost is only a couple dollars more per gallon . . . substitutes are false economy. Using anything else misses the point of adding anything at all. Just completely drain all the sea water if you''re that cheap.
Besides the other reasons mentioned (corrosion protection, et al), I wouldn''t use windshield washer fluid for another reason. Washer fluid typically contains methanol as its anti-freeze, and methanol deteriorates rubber. I see the potential for problems in hoses, impellers, etc.
FWIW,
Mark
Lake St. Clair, MI
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