Hello all! first post, but I've been lurking for a while.

I've recently bought a mini from my friend- I'm stuck fixing her up, because DEAR LORD they did NO maintenance.

I've changed the oil and I'm going to be replacing the spark plugs and wires, but I was wondering if water with additives would be a viable option? I know straight water usually runs colder than 50/50. Do y'all think that'd be a not awful idea with something like DEI radiator relief, or something similar?

I wouldn't be shocked if being this cautious about this (and other things I've been looking at) is overkill, but she's a fix-it, and also my only transportation. Don't got the bones to try and replace her, and I don't think the money from scrapping her would help bridge that gap lol

any thoughts help, wouldn't mind some bonus tips either lol

edit: general consensus is no for street cars, esp for extreme temps. not super shocked, but helpful either way, ty ty <3

 

I would personally stay away from straight water. You definitely benefit from BMW safe coolant, specifically the seals in the entire coolant system and water pump. There is often additives that help lubricate the seals and keep them in tip top form.

Went through a bout myself with generic Prestone coolant which enjoyed eating the seals out of the water pump rather fast.

I run Zerex G05 coolant and have not had an issue doing so, its rather cheap considering.

 

Don't compromise. You're looking at a major job if your idea fails. BMW spec coolant only for my MINIs.

 

Water with additives such as water wetter should only be used on track cars if you have a temperature controlled place to keep it in the winter as it will still freeze at 32* temps. I run it in my track car but it lives in the garage. If your car is stored outside or will be driven during the winter, do NOT use water and an additive as it will freeze.

 

GLTHR53 gives good advice. I, too run only distilled water and REDLINE WATERWETTER in my track car. I only wish others that run my events do likewise but, for a street car, it's not advised.

 

@NC TRACKRAT Yes, nothing more slippery than spilled antifreeze on the track, except maybe for ice.

 

Thanks for the advice, I appreciate it. You saved my day.