Follow this POV video if you want to remove the silica / silicat bag from the coolant expansion tank. They are known to rupture, where the silica beads will run through the coolant system and clog up the heater matrix. This will result in costly and unnecessary repairs.
When you remove the silica bag, it's also recommended to swap over to G12 EVO coolant instead of G13. Coolant is NOT a lifetime fluid and will lose it characteristics over time and usage.
// More info about G12 EVO vs G13
G12 Evo and G13 coolants have distinct formulations and properties, particularly in terms of their base components and the presence of silica additives.
// G13 Coolant
G13 is a long-lasting, ready-to-use coolant made from a blend of monoethylene glycol and glycerol. It uses silicate additives to provide additional protection for aluminum components. These silicate additives help in repairing and protecting aluminum parts, making G13 ideal for modern radiators constructed from aluminum, cast iron, and magnesium alloys. However, G13 is not recommended for older cooling systems with copper or brass radiators due to its interaction with lead solder.
// G12 Evo Coolant
G12 Evo is a newer formulation that was introduced to address some of the issues with G13. It is closer in formulation to G12++ than to G13. G12 Evo uses a different additive package designed to better protect the new soldering formulas in the latest cooling system components, such as radiators and heat exchangers. Unlike G13, G12 Evo does not contain silicate additives, which can sometimes separate from the water, cling to aluminum parts, and cause buildup and clogs in the system.
// Mixing G12 Evo and G13
While G12 Evo and G13 can be mixed, it is generally not recommended due to the differences in their formulations. Mixing them can lead to a loss of corrosion protection and potential compatibility issues. If you need to top off your coolant, it is best to use the same type of coolant that is already in your system. If you are unsure, it is advisable to flush the system and refill it with the appropriate coolant to ensure optimal performance and protection.
// Conclusion
G13 contains silicate additives for aluminum protection, suitable for modern radiators but not for older copper/brass systems. G12 Evo: Does not contain silicate additives, designed for newer cooling system components, and can be mixed with G13 but with potential loss of protection.
When you remove the silica bag, it's also recommended to swap over to G12 EVO coolant instead of G13. Coolant is NOT a lifetime fluid and will lose it characteristics over time and usage.
// More info about G12 EVO vs G13
G12 Evo and G13 coolants have distinct formulations and properties, particularly in terms of their base components and the presence of silica additives.
// G13 Coolant
G13 is a long-lasting, ready-to-use coolant made from a blend of monoethylene glycol and glycerol. It uses silicate additives to provide additional protection for aluminum components. These silicate additives help in repairing and protecting aluminum parts, making G13 ideal for modern radiators constructed from aluminum, cast iron, and magnesium alloys. However, G13 is not recommended for older cooling systems with copper or brass radiators due to its interaction with lead solder.
// G12 Evo Coolant
G12 Evo is a newer formulation that was introduced to address some of the issues with G13. It is closer in formulation to G12++ than to G13. G12 Evo uses a different additive package designed to better protect the new soldering formulas in the latest cooling system components, such as radiators and heat exchangers. Unlike G13, G12 Evo does not contain silicate additives, which can sometimes separate from the water, cling to aluminum parts, and cause buildup and clogs in the system.
// Mixing G12 Evo and G13
While G12 Evo and G13 can be mixed, it is generally not recommended due to the differences in their formulations. Mixing them can lead to a loss of corrosion protection and potential compatibility issues. If you need to top off your coolant, it is best to use the same type of coolant that is already in your system. If you are unsure, it is advisable to flush the system and refill it with the appropriate coolant to ensure optimal performance and protection.
// Conclusion
G13 contains silicate additives for aluminum protection, suitable for modern radiators but not for older copper/brass systems. G12 Evo: Does not contain silicate additives, designed for newer cooling system components, and can be mixed with G13 but with potential loss of protection.
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