Ask The Expert

Matt Y says:
You may need to do some more research. You can definitely start a car with the radiator cap off. The coolant will not spew all over the place on start up. I know because I have done it many many times. The only time the coolant spews out everywhere is if you take the cap off while the engine is very hot. Of course if you start the car with the cap off and leave it off for more than lets say 4-5 minutes the coolant will begin to spew out because the engine has heated up, as well as the coolant. next time try following the directions to a tee before assuming you know better than the scientist that invented the stuff.
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J Mullins says:
If you can run your engine with the cap off without coolant spewing out, you dont have a blown head gasket.
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Expert note:
Above customer ended up using another bottle with success. Thanks Matt!

Red Angel Video

That's right!  USA Sealants is handing out Benjamins to our hot consumers.  It's an easy-even trade for your A/C Repair Video using our Red Angel A/C Stop Leak and our cool cash.  Yes, you will have to purchase our "#1 in the Country" Red Angel A/C Stop Leak.   But that's a no- brainer, right?  You'll not only get a guaranteed easy to use repair on your Air Conditioning System (and sweat-less summer) but also a $100 for following the below 5 TIPS! 

 Example TIPS are for CAN.  Adjust as needed for Bottle. (Directions are similar for Can and Bottle). 

First, make sure you a/c system is evacuated or partially depleted.

Things we want to see: 

1.    Show us either Can or Bottle. 

2.  Locate low side port and unscrew cap.

(Start engine & set a/c to MAX, remove safety tab and shake CAN well.

3.  Attach coupler to low side service port.

4.  Inject product.  Easy right?

5.  Show your enthusiasm for repair - it just saved you from a HOT summer!

-Turn off camera, upload it to You Tube and email me the link at kpapajohn@usasealants.com.  You are done and a $100 richer!

*Do not use if your system is losing more than one pound of Freon per day or if your compressor is leaking.

UPDATE:  (Frequently Asked Questions)

1.   R-134a, R-12 or R-22?  The Can already comes with 2.5 oz of R-134a which is the most common Freon.  However, the Can is not compatible with other Freon (only R-134a) so check your system requirements first.  Bottle does NOT come with freon but is compatible with most Freon including R-134a, R-12 & R-22.

2.  Video types?  All  formats permitted by You Tube works.  We want the video to be of decent quality and some "smart phones" do shoot great videos.  You be the judge.  But if it is so grainy that you wouldn't watch it then we probably won't either (yes, no money if we don't want to watch it, sorry). Don't worry- we're a lenient audience.

3.  Can or Bottle? Purchase where?  Again, we don't care which you pick or where it is purchased.  However, you will need an oil injector if you purchase the bottle.

John Mc Clure

Blue Devil worked great in my 1984 Subaru. I put it in let it run for the 50 min and the white smoke from the exhaust was gone. The car runs cooler now, and at 365,784 miles I am impressed with the Blue Devil product. I have another Subaru that may have a slight blown head gasket and I am going to try it out on it.

Bob Calhoun
Blue Devil saved my butt! I traveled home, in my '99 Isuzu Rodeo 2.2l, for Easter and found out I had a blown head gasket on the way. I needed to get home and back to work and replacing the gasket was too expensive and would take too long. So we crossed our fingers, followed the directions, and I made the 3 1/2 hour trip today without any problems. I don't know how long it will last, but it got me home and gives me time to find a new car. Thanks! I'll definitely recommend it.

Rusty Matias

Im impressed,I had a 95 VW jetta 2.0L owned by a neighbor of mine,had a blown head gskt.the cost was more than what the car's worth.So I talked to my neighbor into trying out your BLUE DEVIL sealant.So as per instructed via label in back of bottle..ran car VERY VERY VERY INPRESSED did what it was made to do.Now no more GRUMPY neighbor......THANKS BLUE DEVIL TEAM...will recommand prouduct..........ALOHA from HILO,HAWAII.....

 Martha Thomas
I used Blue Devil about a over a half a year ago, and was very depressed that my car was overheating, and my husband put it in as the instructions said for the pour and go. Runs like a champ. Thanks!!

 Mike L Collins

blue devil is good stuff

 Justin Snowden

I think my head gasket is blown on my 2001 nissan sentra it has the 1.8 which bottle do i need the 16oz or 32oz?
 USA Sealants

The 16oz.

 Shane Russell

that rear main seal does it work on oil pan gaskets to?

USA Sealants

 It may work on oil pan gaskets. But for best results, we recommend the White Shepherd Oil Stop Leak. Thanks!

 George Keiper

If I used K&W nanotechnology unsuccsesfully can I still use your blue devil?

 USA Sealants

You can always flush it well and try it. People have sent us several videos showing Bars and other competitors that didn't worked. They then tried ours and it was successful. (See www.youtube.com/user/bluedevilcontest). With that being said, we usually discourage this last case resort because we don't know the make up of the other products and the reaction between different chemicals.

 Tom Pierce

blue devil rules.....

Malcolm Bates

My son has a blown head gasket on a Fiat Punto.. hoping this will help him.. when I find a UK supplier.

Aquarian Derek

First flush entire cooling system with water until runs clean. If radiator very dirty or clogged and old either replace or take radiator to radiator shop and have it cleaned out professionally. Then fill up the system as directed with Blue ...Devil! AWESOME STUFF!

Remember leave the Blue Devil in the system permanently. It will improve and improve!! Best of luck!

MACS

Among those who say they will do their own vehicle repairs in 2011:

Where would you go to learn how to do repairs on your vehicle?

Friend/Family 57%
Vehicle Repair Manual 46%
Mechanic 42%
Internet (including online video and social networks) 42%
Store Personnel 16%

SOURCE: The NPD Group/2011 Aftermarket Consumer Outlook Study

“The new reality is that consumers are keeping their cars longer, and those cars will need repairs and maintenance,” said David Portalatin, industry analyst for NPD’s aftermarket unit. “For companies providing professional repair and maintenance work, this presents a strong growth opportunity. For companies seeking ways to assist consumers and promote DIY activity, the Internet will be an important tool in 2011.”

Click here for full front cover story: 

www.motorwatch.com/USA.pdf

It seems there is a FEAR that resonates from the taboo of stop leaks.  Sometimes, I play part coach, mechanic and psychologist in analyzing the real source of our consumer's questions... or more accurately described... FEAR.  

The fear usually stems from your trusted mechanic and Internet rumors.  Simply put- most people don't understand the science of a "potion".   And you can guess that your mechanic's bread and butter isn't coming from an hour job and no mark up on a metal part.  With that being said- We LOVE mechanics- In fact, the MAJORITY of our customers are mechanics.  Reason being- the cost of a part may overshadow the vehicle's worth OR they care about you--- meaning they understand, in this economy, that people can't afford parts!  But mostly, they KNOW the difference between the vehicles that are candidates for our products. 

Now, yes, in my time working for this company, I have seen HUGE leaks that I wouldn't have recommend our products being used on--(ex. You tube video with motorcycle).   There is nothing magical or miraculous about these chemicals.  Most have been around for over 50 years.  And guess what- your manufacturer may even used it in your new vehicle as  preventive maintenance. 

Now why is our products different from the rest?  Well, some companies haven't adapted with time and tweaked their formulas with advanced technology.  Of course- I am biased.  But if you had seen as many fixes as I have seen with these product then you would be too-- I have folders file cabinet deep of testimonials. 

The fact is - the auto world needs and uses chemicals- it is a natural chemistry for repair.  Engineers had chemicals in mind and used them  building engines.  There is nothing to be AFRAID of...  we even added our Money Back Guarantee to help some of you scaredy-cats out .  But seriously, utilize me and our tech hot-line- IT'S FREE! And "Yes", we will tell you NO if we don't think our products will fix your leak!  

Good Luck and ... BREATHE... oh and FOLLOW the directions .

Well, what it is- is keeping the engine's temperature controlled.  So in essence, it is exactly as it sounds--- cooling system (system=engine).  So cooling the engine happens due to "coolant" and major components such as the radiator, radiator cap, coolant reservoir, fan, fan relay, water pump, hoses, belts, thermostat, coolant sensor and ANTIFREEZE.  The coolant from the engine is circulated by the water pump to the radiator to remove  waste heat.    The coolant usually travels and exits via the upper radiator hose and returns back through the lower radiator hose. 

Now, the actual temperature is controlled by the thermostat that has this (metal) flap that allows heat passage.  It sits where the upper radiator hose connects to the engine.  And yep, you guessed it... that is why we recommend removing the thermostat so by chance it doesn't open which overheats your engine.

Engine gaskets include head gaskets, intake and exhaust manifold gaskets, timing cover gaskets, thermostat and throttle body gaskets, valve cover and pan gaskets, valve guide seals, and crankshaft and camshaft seals. Moreover, head gaskets seal the cylinder head to the engine block. The gasket often has a solid or perforeated steel core that is faced on one or both sides with a a nonasbestos gasket material which is also known as graphite. (Now the one referred to in your car). Yours from what I understand has raised rubber sealing beads printed around the coolant passageway. These beads are key to protecting the gasket from burn with either a silicon coating or anti-friction. Hope this helps. I will follow up with the post based on your questions.

Hi, how do I use the White Shepherd to seal my oil leak?

(This consumer has a leak that is a small puddle (few drops) on under the car after parking on a flat surface. He started his car and idled for 20 mins).

First, check out the color. Is it red or brown? Then open your car's manual to determine if it is transmission fluid based on that color. Then get a funnel, open your hood & locate your transmission fluid red dipstick. Use a search engine to find images if you are confused for your make/model or consult your manual. Pour the stop-leak directly down this tube with a funnel if you have one. Pour in just enough to replace the lost fluid. Use the dipstick to determine the correct level and start up the engine and drive for up to 2 hours. See our FAQs for more info.

Some of you may know Mr. Dirty Coolant as DEX-COOL®. Not cool with 1999 GM Blazers though because it correlates with blocked heater cores caused by intake manifold gasket leaks. Moreover, may still show up with that generation of Vor Tech engines even after you replace your gaskets.  You will notice the dirty coolant in the reservoir and radiator and will have to flush more than normal for years so skip your faith with this 100,000 mile coolant unless your thinking cool means no heat literally.  Please message me if you are a technician and interested in a specific flush for this vehicle.  I have no experience with this aforementioned flush but possess the parts and procedure list from a certified and experienced source.

-- (This post is also on the home page of www.searchautoparts.com which I also blog for under my alias: Ole_Blue).

We had record visits over Thanksgiving.  You should receive an email from me answering your questions specifically.  Due to the similarities of all your questions; I selected only unique questions for public viewing.  Please scroll down the blog on questions regarding:  Northstar Engines, Thermostats and differences between the 16 oz and 32 oz Blue Devil.  You will see that most of your questions are already answered here.  As always, we are delighted with your testimonials and will post them. 

Thanks for your support,

Kerri Papajohn

No.  Leaks in the water pump require replacing the pump.  The same is with leaks in hoses (replace hose).

Use Blue Devil (16 or 32 oz.) on leaks in a radiator.  Sealers added to a cooling system respond to blown/cracked heads, heater core or hose and freeze plugs.

Make sure you inspect the cooling system and engine visually to determine where the coolant is going- use a pressure tester if needed.   Remember no engine can handle a loss of coolant and mostly overheats soon when leaks develop. So look first in radiator or heater hoses, the water pump, radiator, heater core or engine freeze plugs where coolant can escape.

Q.  Does thermostat have to be removed? Your video does not show it being removed.

A. 

Ed-

For best results with this product you would, in fact, want the thermostat to be removed.  The thermostat may have already been taken out prior to the taping of the specific video you are referring to.  It is important for the product to be free-flowing throughout the cooling system for the full 50 minute idle.  Let us know if you have any further questions.

Thanks,

Zach Friedley, Tech Hotline

-----This is correct.  If you listen to the videos, most acknowledge that they removed the thermostat. Ed may choose to search You Tube (www.youtube.com) for videos on "how to remove a thermostat on a _______"  &  imput his make/model into the blank.  -----Kerri Papajohn

Note:  Asked prior to using our product.

First, let's figure out why your thermostat is stuck.  I am assuming you know where your radiator hose is-- if your asking this question.  If not, use a search engine for images prior to my advice.

Start your engine and VERY CAREFULLY, during several minutes of warm up, lightly touch your radiator hose (connected to engine) where the thermostat is housed inside.   Is it hot?  If not, then you will need to purchase a new thermostat of the same temperature rating as your existing used/defective one. 

How the thermostat works?  It blocks the flow of coolant from the engine to the radiator until the engine reaches a temperature between 190 - 195 degrees F.   The thermostat may be stuck due to deteriorated mechanisms from normal wear & tear.  OR a steam pocket formed behind the thermostat not allowing coolant to pass behind.

Q. I plan on trying the Blue Devil in a '92 Acura Vigor 5cyl engine with leaking head gasket or cracked head or freeze plug. Leak occurs after full operating temperature reached but not every time! Any hints/helpful comments or history of it working in that particular car???

A.   As temperatures rise most materials expand- leaving room for a leak.  Factors such as age, miles (highway or home base) and environment temperatures can contribute to the inconsistency especially if it is a small leak that you've just noticed. 

Tips:

1.  On top of the normal directions. Flush.  Remove Thermostat.

2.  Pour Blue Devil SLOW.  Count out loud- up to 1 minute.

3.  Drive after 50 minute install.  The longer the better.  Get on a highway. 2 hours +/-.

4.  Leave Blue Devil in system overnight.  Drive in morning.

History?  Fixed over a million cars in a decade. Check out the testimonial videos.  

 I do not have stats on that car specifically. 

One of the biggest differences between “old” cars (those built before the widespread adoption of electronic fuel injection and computer controls in the mid-late 1980s) and “modern” cars is the warm-up.  If your car was a few years older I would suggest 3 minutes or so warm up time prior to the installation.  During this time the choke would turn itself off and engine will settle into a stall-free idle.   With your car- 30 seconds is fine after initial start up.

I received quite a bit of comments/interest over the Holiday.   Two questions overlapped with detonation damage to a head gasket and pre-ignition.  Since these are similar in nature, I will give a broad analysis and please email me at: kpapajohn@usasealants.com for further insight. 

Q.  Is detonation causing problems with my head gasket?

A.  Detonation is damaging for several reasons. One occurs with high levels of compression resulting from accumulation of carbon in the combustion chamber.  This is mainly found in late-model engines which require premium octane fuel.  (Which gets to my second question).  Compression can peak and the fuel will randomly ignite prior to a spark setting it off.  This will cause the engine to knock and ping under the load. 

You may measure the head gasket with a micrometer in the area where it failed (be careful) to see if overheating (detonation) was the problem with the head gasket failure.  If you notice the (crushed) gasket measures thinner in that hot spot failure along with the combustion chamber's cracked armor then detonation damaged the head gasket.