2004 Mazda RX-8 Owner's Manual - Page 238

J60E_8R65-EA-03C_Edition2.book Page 13 Saturday, April 26, 2003 1:48 PM Maintenance and Care Owner Maintenance M Changing Coolant Change coolant according to Scheduled Maintenance (page 8-3). To change coolant WARNING Removing the Cooling System Cap: Removing the cooling system cap or drain plug while the engine is running or hot is dangerous. This might lead to cooling system and engine damage and could result in serious injury from escaping hot coolant or steam. Turn off the engine and wait until it's cool. Even then, be very careful when removing the cap or drain plug. Wrap a thick cloth around it and slowly turn it counterclockwise to the first stop. Step back while the pressure escapes. When you're sure all the pressure is gone, press down on the cap - still using a cloth - turn the cap, and remove it. 1. Remove the cooling system cap. 2. Only when the engine is cool, loosen the radiator drain plug and drain the coolant into a suitable container. Properly dispose of the used coolant. CAUTION • Use only soft (demineralized) water in the coolant mixture. Water that contains minerals will cut down on the coolant's effectiveness. • Don't add only water. Always add a proper coolant mixture. • The engine has aluminum parts and must be protected by an ethyleneglycol-based coolant to prevent corrosion and freezing. • DO NOT USE alcohol or methanol antifreeze. DO NOT MIX alcohol or methanol with the coolant. This could damage the cooling system. • Don't use a solution that contains more than 60 % antifreeze. This would reduce effectiveness. For mixture percentage: Protection Above -16°C (3°F) Above -26°C (-15°F) Above -40°C (-40°F) Volume Antifreeze solution 35% 45% 55% Water 65% 55% 45% 8-13 Form No. 8R65-EA-03C