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-   -   Did something really stupid-help! (http://986forum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=10398)

docdyh 04-01-2007 11:53 AM

Did something really stupid-help!
 
I put windshield washer fluid in the coolant overflow reservoir-then drove the car. Once I realized what I had done, I siphoned off the amount I added from the reservoir. Seems to run okay-any serious damage done or to be expected? Thanks in advance.

kabel 04-01-2007 12:08 PM

If this is not an April fools joke, I would guess you really need to flush out the entire coolant system before driving it again, period. Window washing fluid is a detergent and will likely degrade the effectiveness of the lubricants in the coolant....

Tool Pants 04-01-2007 12:20 PM

All those blue caps look the same.

Reminds me of the blonde joke about the 710 cap.

You are not the first, but most guys say their girlfriend did it.

So, how many gallons of windshield washer fluid did you put in the coolant tank. More like a cup or two I would guess.

MNBoxster 04-01-2007 12:46 PM

Hi,

The only damage you've done is dilute your coolant. Most pre-mixed Windshield Washer fluid is made of water, ethanol, or isopropanol, or ethylenglycol (usually labled Winter Mix).

Basically, you can just leave it in and you'll be OK. If obsessing over it, you can idle the car with the Bleeder Valve open and the alcohol solvent (ethanol, isopropanol) will just flash off, leaving you with a slightly diluted Coolant mix.

Next time you need a top-up, start by adding a Tsp or 2 of undiluted Coolant and you'll bring it back into balance.

While I wouldn't make a practice of doing this, the occasional inadvertent top-up with Windshield fluid won't harm it at all...

Happy Motoring!... Jim'99

docdyh 04-01-2007 01:39 PM

No joke...thanks Jim...makes sense.. only a cup went in...

bmussatti 04-01-2007 01:46 PM

In the 987 the washer fluid is in the front trunk and the coolant is in the rear trunk. Where is the washer fluid on the 986?

docdyh 04-01-2007 02:20 PM

front compartment

fab 04-01-2007 02:21 PM

ditto for 986...

kabel 04-01-2007 03:54 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by MNBoxster
The only damage you've done is dilute your coolant.

Well that's good news! Sorry I jumped to that conclusion, I was certain the addition of the washer fluid would be detrimental, but I'm glad it's not. :)


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