582 Coolant Color Change

[Bateleur]

I am most probably over reacting again, but I noticed on Sunday that our Aquilla 582's radiator water has changed from its normal light PINK color to a darker PURPLE color. I flew with her like that on Sunday and there was no drop in water level. It just doesn't seem right to me?
Could it be a problem?

[Dunesand]

Hi Bateleur,

Have a look at my post 2 year ago.
viewtopic.php?f=13&t=17667
I had a similar problem with coolant discolouration without any engine problems whatsoever.
I am 90% sure mine was as result of some exhaust gas entering the coolant at the top gaskets as result of a little too low torque of the six nuts on the top.
A local guy phoned me up and said they have seen this happening in a vehicle - if the coolant changes colour, it might well be exhaust gas entering the coolant.
Strangely I also never had loss of coolant either and since I re-torqued the bolts a little bit higher, the discolouration hasn't appeared again after I replaced the coolant.

Whether your discolouration and my discolouration is as result of the same problem is difficult to say - maybe if you leave it a little longer the discolouration might be the same eventually - or maybe it has to do with the type of 2 stroke we use. I use CASTROL POWER 1 RACING 2T and the coolant is also CASTROL premix.

Hope it helps.

[Bateleur]

Hi Dunesand,

Thank you very much for your comments. My first thought was also that it could only be exhaust gas mixing with the water, but I thought that in that case the water level should drop.

I am going to check this with Hans our AP at the airfield.

The cooled has done 110 hours now, so I think it is worth a flush and refill.

Thanks a lot, your input is highly appreciated.

Stef