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1997 Saab Talladega 2.3NA 88,000Kms
I decided I should change my coolant and also flush the system. In preparation I tried to get Saab Coolant (Blue) that was already in the car. My Saab dealer could only supply the New Orange coolant currently used in new Saabs. I decided to go with a GM Coolant Inhibitor (AS2108.1:97 Type A) used by Holden, its colour is Green. Also had 20 litres of water I had saved from our dehumidifier during the winter months.
I disconnect both radiator pipes and removed the thermostat so that I could flush them. Saw some blue coolant come out then clear water. I was pleased there was no evidence of corrosion and the only minor fault I could find was some evidence of a very slight weepage from the thermostat housing. I spent a long time flushing and finished with some of the dehumidifier water. I reconnected everything and put some flexible sealant on the thermostat housing joint. I then put in 4.5 litres of full strength Coolant Inhibitor and have only been able to add 1.0 litres of water. I ran the engine until the radiator fan came on and eventually added another 0.5 litres of water when the engine had cooled to bring the header tank to the correct level. I have read the Owners Manual and found the total coolant capacity is 8.5 litres. So can I assume that the heater core and other cavities would be holding the remaining 2.5 litres. This would mean I have more than the recommended 50% ratio of coolant and water and maybe a slight contamination of the old coolant. Should I worry about this?
Also, I have been wondering why the temperature gauge always reads the 9 o’clock position over varying driving conditions and ambient temperatures. Well, I have read in some Saab literature and found the gauge is not connected directly to the bulb sensor on the block. What happens is the gauge reads 9 o’clock for a normal driving temperature ranges and if the temperature goes outside of this the gauge starts to read wether it’s an over temperature or an abnormal under temperature such as a stuck open thermostat.
I really like this forum and find it very helpful.
Cheers – Martin Barnes (New Zealand)
posted by 210.86.4...
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