Coolant Concentration Testing

NOTE: Coolant testers with centigrade scale or fahrenheit scale can be used to check the antifreeze protection of the coolant. Make sure the refractometer markings are correct. Unless centigrade scale or fahrenheit scale has a provision for temperature correction, test the temperature at which testers are calibrated. If the coolant is warmer or cooler the reading may be incorrect. Follow the manufacturer's directions on tester being used.

1. Release the tip of the pump from the coolant tester housing.
2. Insert the tip of the pump into the surge tank. Make sure the tip of the pump is below the level of the coolant.
3. Press and release the bulb to get a sample.
4. Insert the tip of the pump into the cover plate opening.
5. Press the bulb and allow a few drops to fall onto the measuring surface. Do not open the plastic cover when taking readings because water evaporation can change the readings.
6. Point the coolant tester toward any light and look into the eyepiece.
^ Coolant protection reading is at the point where the dividing line between light and dark crosses the scale (anti-freeze protection is the scale on the right).
^ Temperature scale is reversed from a standard thermometer scale.
^ Below zero readings are on the upper half of the scale.
^ If the readings are not clear, the measuring surface was not cleaned and dried properly. Wipe dry and make a new test.