My test of the "Anti-freeze only" winterization process

[bruceb58]

Typically, they aren't even screwed into the block. They are screwed into a brass elbow which is then screwed into the block. Plus, you are in fresh water!

If they are screwed into the block, you need to remove them to drain the block so just leave them out for the winter!

On some engines, the knock sensors are screwed into a fitting and don't even see the coolant passage.

I want to see the pictures!

 

[bruceb58]

I only worry about it because I've seen so many pictures of rusted out knock sensors that people are having trouble removing and breaking off in the block due to corrosion. I guess I'm crazy for doing something about it, but for $20 I'll keep doing it.

So you aren't pulling them to drain the block?

 

[oldjeep]

Typically, they aren't even screwed into the block. They are screwed into a brass elbow which is then screwed into the block. Plus, you are in fresh water!

If they are screwed into the block, you need to remove them to drain the block so just leave them out for the winter!

I want to see the pictures!

Not sure what kind of engines you are looking at, but modern GM knock sensors are screwed directly into the block. As for leaving them out for winter - uh no, then the threads in the block rust up.

Here is one - older style sensor where the end rotted off, this is the common issue. The newer knock sensors like what is in my boat are a little beefier since the electronics are separate from the stud.

 

[bruceb58]

That from a salt water or fresh water boat? You do remove yours when you drain your block right?

 

[oldjeep]

That from a salt water or fresh water boat? You do remove yours when you drain your block right?

Fresh water, all of the ones I've seen are in inboard ski boats. I remove them when I drain the block and then put them back in before filling it with antifreeze. Mine are the newer 2 piece style though - like this:

 

[pckeen]

And out comes the popcorn.

:fencing:

opcorn:

 

[oldjeep]

And out comes the popcorn.

:fencing:

opcorn:

Nah, I'm done I'll wait for the next ethanol/stabilizer/devil thread.

I think the takeaway is - drain out the water and either put antifreeze in or don't. I've got my reasons for doing it and will continue to do it.

 

[bruceb58]

I think the takeaway is - drain out the water and either put antifreeze in or don't. I've got my reasons for doing it and will continue to do it.

I will buy that. The OP's starting thread is mainly aimed at the guys that don't drain initially and rely on just sucking the anti freeze in through the muffs thinking that is sufficient.

 

[oldjeep]

I will buy that. The OP's starting thread is mainly aimed at the guys that don't drain initially and rely on just sucking the anti freeze in through the muffs thinking that is sufficient.

I'm pretty sure my heater core would be cracked the next year if I ever tried that The heater core in my boat is one of my other reasons for the antifreeze - basically you blow out the water from the engine bay but you are never really sure if 100% of it comes out since there isn't a perfect way to drain it without actually digging out the core and disconnecting the hoses there. If I fill with antifreeze at least theoretically the -100 stuff will not dilute down enough with the water that might be left in the core.