Bracket Talk
Coolant?

This topic can be found at:
https://drr.infopop.cc/eve/forums/a/tpc/f/75460652/m/5777048207

October 09, 2025, 08:29 AM
truckman
Coolant?
I'm finally getting ready to fire up my new motor and break it in. Back in my circle track days we weren't allowed to use antifreeze on paved tracks, is that the same in the straight-line world?
The reason was due to it being slipperier and more difficult to clean up after a spill, (crash, blown motor, etc.). We used water mixed with a product called WaterWetter.
So, if it's not allowed, what do you guys use?
October 09, 2025, 08:46 AM
Phil Dees
Not supposed to run antifreeze. But, every street car that is test and tuning at your local track is full of it.
October 09, 2025, 09:22 AM
CURTIS REED
I run this.

https://www.norosion.com/hyperkuhlcoolant.htm

Pretty sure they are private labeling the same thing for VP.

I ran Water Wetter once and had a radiator cap leak getting coolant all over. It stained all the aluminum items it got on. Never again for me.

.
October 09, 2025, 10:02 AM
truckman
It does get cold where I live, so another concern was freeze protection. I see Norosion doesn't do that.
October 09, 2025, 10:04 AM
truckman
I don't think I want to fill it with water, drain it every winter, that will allow rust inside.
October 09, 2025, 10:09 AM
ferndaleflyer
I use water and water wetter. Used it for years. I keep my car inside heated garage in the winter.
October 09, 2025, 10:15 AM
CURTIS REED
quote:
Originally posted by truckman:
It does get cold where I live, so another concern was freeze protection. I see Norosion doesn't do that.


You didn't say that you needed freeze protection although I guess that is why you started out talking about antifreeze. You are correct it offers zero protection. None of the corrosion inhibitors alone will that I know of.
October 09, 2025, 10:23 AM
Eman
Water and if you want to prevent rusting and keep the water pump seals lubed add some water pump lube or machining oil to the water. There are a few additives out there like Lucas additive but just water works fine. Antifreeze works best for preventing the rust but water cools better. Tracks haven't figured out how to clean up an antifreeze spill so they don't want you using it.
October 09, 2025, 11:06 AM
Lenny5160
If I'm installing a new engine in the spring, I'll use distilled water with water pump lube and stop leak.

This time of year, I'd just go with a standard 50/50 mix of water and green antifreeze.


Tony Leonard
October 09, 2025, 11:49 AM
BP758
^^ This !


California Screaming!
Raceless in California!
October 09, 2025, 09:11 PM
markemark
50/50 in mine after this weekend if I don’t replace the engine in November. Peak Global Lifetime is my choice…amber in color.
October 10, 2025, 07:27 AM
Big Steve
No antifreeze during racing season!. I use purified drinking water plus water wetter or something similar, the Lucas product is also good.
If its not stored in a heated garage in the winter then drain it and add 50/50 coolant
October 10, 2025, 01:15 PM
TomR
Water in the summer and antifreeze once we get a freeze warning. My garage is not heated.


72 Nova "Hooptie"
October 10, 2025, 03:16 PM
Tom396
Last November, the freezes came pretty early, so I'll be adding antifreeze in early November this season. Yes, there will be one or two races during the winter. By March, it will be back to straight water. Take care. Tom Worthington


If it seems that bracket racing has gotten too expensive for you, maybe you are just doing it wrong.