1997 Toyota Tacoma Owners Manual - Page 188

Checking the engine coolant level Oil identification marks Either or both API registered marks are added to some oil containers to help you select the oil you should use. The API Service Symbol is located anywhere on the outside of the container. The top portion of the label shows the oil quality by API (American Petroleum Institute) designations such as SH. The center portion of the label shows the SAE viscosity grade such as SAE 5W-30. "Energy-Conserving II" shown in the lower portion, indicates that the oil has fuelsaving capabilities. Oils marked "Energy-Conserving II" will have higher fuel-saving capabilities than oil marked "Energy-Conserving". The ILSAC (International Lubricant Standardization and Approval Committee) Certification Mark is displayed on the front of the container. Look at the see-through coolant reservoir when the engine is cold. The coolant level is satisfactory if it is between the "F" and "L" lines on the reservoir. If the level is low, add ethyleneglycol type coolant. The coolant level in the reservoir will vary with engine temperature. However, if the level is on or below the "L" line, add coolant. Bring the level up to the "F" line. Use only ethylene-glycol type coolant. See information in the next column. If the coolant level drops within a short time after replenishing, there may be a leak in the system. Visually check the radiator, hoses, radiator cap and drain cock and water pump. If you can find no leak, have your Toyota dealer test the cap pressure and check for leaks in the cooling system. Coolant type selection Your coolant must contain ethylene-glycol antifreeze. In addition to preventing freezing and subsequent damage to the engine, this will also prevent corrosion. Further supplemental inhibitors or additives are neither needed nor recommended. Read the antifreeze container for information on freeze protection. Follow the manufacturer's directions for how much to mix with water. The total capacity of the cooling system is given in Part 8. We recommend 50% solution be used for your Toyota, or a sufficient quantity to provide protection to about -35_C (-31_C). NOTICE Do not use alcohol type antifreeze or plain water alone. ! CAUTION To prevent burning yourself, do not remove the radiator cap when the engine is hot. 183