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Identify that fluid............

Chook

Well-Known Member
Messages
706
Location
Brisbane (Australia)
A couple of weeks ago a H40 Member had some trouble discerning the type of red fluid their Hummer left on the garage floor............ Today I received an email from a supplier here that created a video to help explain the different vehicle fluids so thought I would share a link to their website video for the members here also.............. I hope it is helpful !!! http://www.supercheapauto.com.au/ho...il&utm_campaign=wk_34_2012#.USRXKh8zC38.email
 

Chook

Well-Known Member
Messages
706
Location
Brisbane (Australia)
In case the link goes down in the future, here is the text from the page as well............

Here's a rundown of the major fluids:
[h=3]Automatic[/h][h=3]Transmission[/h][h=3]Fluid[/h]
  • Automatic transmission fluid is used to lubricate transmission valves, gears and the torque converter as well as prevent brake band friction.
  • ATF is usually red in colour although some synthetic transmission fluids appear clear.
  • ATF has a thin viscosity.

[h=3]Power[/h][h=3]Steering[/h][h=3]Fluid[/h]
  • Power steering fluid is a hydraulic fluid used in the power steering system to move the steering rack in relation to the position of the steering wheel.
  • Power steering fluid is extremely similar to ATF in colour and viscosity.
  • Low Power steering fluid levels or a leak will cause steering to feel heavy or shudder.

[h=3]Manual[/h][h=3]Transmission and[/h][h=3]Differential[/h][h=3]Gear Oil[/h]
  • Gear oil is designed to protect and lubricate your manual transmission and/or differential gears.
  • Gold or brown in colour, gear oil has a high viscosity that ensures lubrication through the entire gear set.
  • Gear oil also has a distinctive sulphur smell.

[h=3]Engine or[/h][h=3]Motor Oil[/h]
  • Engine oil is optimized for protecting engine components. It reduces component friction, cools moving parts by dispersing heat and keeps the engine clean and free from rust and corrosion.
  • Engine oil is the same gold/brown colour as gear oil but has a much lower viscosity.
  • Make sure you check your engine oil regularly using a dipstick. If the oil appears black or contains metal flecks it’s time to change.

[h=3]Brake Fluid[/h]
  • Brake fluid is the fluid contained in the brakes hydraulics. It is used to operate the pistons that compress the brake pads.
  • Both have a light clear colour and a thin viscosity.

[h=3]Anti-Freeze/[/h][h=3]Anti-Boil or[/h][h=3]Coolant[/h]
  • Finally we have coolant - or anti-freeze/anit-boil. This liquid flows through the engine block and radiator dispersing heat.
  • Coolant comes in many types and colours. Check with your vehicles manual or manufacturer for the correct fluid to use.
  • Never mix two different coolants together as it could cause a damaging chemical reaction.
  • When leaked coolant fluid will resemble coloured water.
 
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