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Home >> Mazda >> 2006 >> RX-8 Sport, 1.3 3 >> Repair and Diagnosis >> Engine Mechanical >> Cooling System (Mechanical) >> Cooling System >> Engine Coolant Protection Inspection

Engine Coolant Protection Inspection

  1. Measure the coolant temperature and specific gravity using a thermometer and a hydrometer.
    CAUTION:
    • Use engine coolant at a concentration that meets the environmental conditions in which the vehicle is driven, otherwise engine damage could occur. 
    • The engine has aluminum parts and must be protected by an ethylene-glycol-based coolant to prevent corrosion and freezing. 
    • Do not use coolants containing Alcohol, Methanol, Borate or Silicate. These coolants could damage the cooling system. 
    • Use only soft (demineralized) water in the coolant mixture. Water that contains minerals will cut down on the coolant's effectiveness. 
    • Engine coolant damages paint. If engine coolant does get on a painted surface, rinse it off quickly. 
    NOTE:
    • If the "FL22" mark is shown on or near the cooling system cap, use FL22 type engine coolant. 
    • FL22 type engine coolant is shipped as a diluted solution (55% coolant, 45% water). Use the solution as is when replacing coolant. 
      Fig 1: Identifying Proper Cooling System Cap
      G04315877Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
  2. Determine the coolant protection level by referring to Fig 2.
    Fig 2: Coolant Specific Gravity Graph
    G04562760Courtesy of MAZDA MOTORS CORP.
    • If the coolant protection level is not correct, add water or coolant.