Fluids shelf life?

G

gwishon

Well-known member
Joined
Sep 27, 2018
Messages
190
Fluid Motion Model
C-30 S
Hull Identification Number
FMLT2929B515
Vessel Name
Summertime
Previous owner left several containers of fluids on the boat, some full, some partially full. Oil, ATF fluid, coolant, etc. Do any or all of these have a limited shelf life, or can they be safely used? For example, I have a full gallon of Volvo VCS coolant concentrate, unopened. But it’s got to be at least three years old. The Volvo manual states that coolant deteriorates over time and must be replaced regularly. Is this concentrate safe to use?

Gordon
 
gwishon":16ws5crt said:
Previous owner left several containers of fluids on the boat, some full, some partially full. Oil, ATF fluid, coolant, etc. Do any or all of these have a limited shelf life, or can they be safely used? For example, I have a full gallon of Volvo VCS coolant concentrate, unopened. But it’s got to be at least three years old. The Volvo manual states that coolant deteriorates over time and must be replaced regularly. Is this concentrate safe to use?

Gordon
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Hey Gordon,

Hope all is well!!

Typically the coolant is going to break down due to use, I wouldn't be too worried about using fluids that are unopened and still sealed. Open ones are more suspect to break down due to the seal being opened. I would say in a pinch you should be fine but best would be to use new oil or coolant that has not been opened. Hope this helps.

Thanks,
 
Fluids last a very long time. Exposure to the atmosphere and use are really the only things to be worried about. I wouldn't hesitate to use yours.
 
Great, thanks!
 
This post caught my attention!
Disclaimer: I'm not a chemist, nor engineer,nor rocket scientist, just an old farm kid.
Since I have a barn full of paint, oil, grease, and every other fluid known and sold I thought I would check the expiration dates. Not one can of spray paint or other fluid I have has a date of expiration.
They do have (not all) a warning for temperature. IE: keep from freezing/extreme heat.
So needless to say my beloved collection of old fluids is safe and I will continue to use.
Just smell the milk prior th drinking, I don't care what the date on the carton says! Bob
 
Thanks, Bob! I took the conservative route and bought fresh oil and coolant for my upcoming 500 hr service. I’ll keep the old for the occasional top off…

Gordon
 
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