Detroit Diesel DD15 EuroIV Operator's Manual page 98

How to Procedures
For best results, take the test while the coolant is between 10.0–60° C (50–140° F).
Wait at least 60, but not longer than 75 seconds, before reading the nitrite level.
NOTE: A factory coolant analysis program is available through authorized
Detroit™ service outlets.
Use the test strips as follows:
NOTE: Color change of the additive indicator (middle pad) indicates the
presence of inhibitor that is not approved by Detroit™.
1. Dip the strip into coolant for one second. Remove and shake briskly to
eliminate excess fluid.
2. Immediately compare the pad end (% glycol) to the color chart on the
container.
3. Sixty seconds (one minute) after dipping, compare the nitrite pad to the color
chart.
4. Promptly replace and tighten the test strip container cap after each use.
Discard unused strips if they have turned light pink or tan.
Removal of Dropout
Excessive amounts of some inhibitors in the coolant can cause a gel or crystalline
deposit that reduces heat transfer and coolant flow. The deposit, called "dropout,"
takes the color of the coolant when wet, but appears as a white or gray powder
when dry. It can pick up solid particles in the coolant and become gritty, causing
excessive wear of water pump seals and other cooling system components.
WARNING: PERSONAL INJURY
To avoid injury when using caustic cleaning agents, follow the
chemical manufacturers usage, disposal, and safety instructions.
NOTE: If the gel is allowed to dry, it is necessary to disassemble the engine
and clean it with a caustic solution or physically clean individual
components.
Remove the wet gel using a non-acid (alkali) type heavy-duty cleaner, such as
Detroit Genuine Cooling System On-Line Cleaner (sodium nitrite/sodium tetra
borate).
Chronic Coolant System Problems
The most commonly seen coolant system problems result from maintenance and
formulation factors such as:
• Hard water
• Dilution of the coolant by the addition of untreated water
• Over dosage or under dosage of corrosion inhibitors
• Improper corrosion inhibitor (most often phosphate)
• Mixing Supplemental Coolant Additives
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Copyright © 2014 DETROIT DIESEL CORPORATION DDC-SVC-MAN-0175
All information subject to change without notice.