The Complete Guide To Extech Rf40: Specifications, Pros And Cons, Troubleshooting, And Buying Tips
Extech RF40 Information
the information you requested about the Extech RF40 battery coolant/glycol refractometer:
Introduction
The Extech RF40 is a portable battery coolant/glycol refractometer that is easy to operate and provides accurate and repeatable measurements. It measures the freezing point of automotive coolants (propylene glycol and ethylene glycol) and indicates the specific gravity of battery acid. It also provides a quick reference of battery charge condition.

Specifications
The Extech RF40 has the following specifications:
- Measures the freezing point of automotive coolants from 32°F to -60°F
- Indicates the specific gravity of battery acid from 1.11 to 1.30
- Automatic Temperature Compensation (ATC)
- Requires only 2 or 3 drops of solution
- Comes complete with case, calibration screwdriver, plastic pipette and calibration solution
Features
The Extech RF40 has the following features:
- Portable and easy to use
- Accurate and repeatable measurements
- Measures the freezing point of automotive coolants and the specific gravity of battery acid
- Provides a quick reference of battery charge condition
- Automatic Temperature Compensation (ATC)
What's in the box
The Extech RF40 comes with the following items in the box:
- Refractometer
- Case
- Calibration screwdriver
- Plastic pipette
- Calibration solution
Conclusion
The Extech RF40 is a great tool for anyone who needs to measure the freezing point of automotive coolants or the specific gravity of battery acid. It is portable, easy to use, and provides accurate and repeatable measurements. If you are looking for a refractometer that can do it all, the Extech RF40 is a great option.
Here is a table that summarizes the specifications of the Extech RF40:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Freezing point range | 32°F to -60°F |
| Specific gravity range | 1.11 to 1.30 |
| Automatic Temperature Compensation (ATC) | Yes |
| Number of drops required | 2 or 3 |
| Accessories included | Case, calibration screwdriver, plastic pipette, calibration solution |
I hope this information is helpful. Please let me know if you have any other questions.
Extech RF40 Compare with Similar Item
Here is a table comparing the Extech RF40 to some similar items:
| Feature | Extech RF40 | Auto Meter 3500 | Testo 206-2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $49.99 | $59.95 | $79.95 |
| Range | -60°F to 32°F | -80°F to 32°F | -80°F to 220°F |
| Accuracy | ±0.2°F | ±0.3°F | ±0.2°F |
| Resolution | 1°F | 1°F | 1°F |
| Automatic Temperature Compensation | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Battery life | 1 year | 1 year | 2 years |
| Warranty | 1 year | 1 year | 2 years |
| Weight | 4.2 ounces | 4.4 ounces | 5.2 ounces |
| Dimensions | 5.5 inches x 2.8 inches x 1.2 inches | 5.7 inches x 3 inches x 1.2 inches | 6.2 inches x 3.2 inches x 1.4 inches |
| Extra features | None | Battery acid test | Battery charge indicator |
As you can see, the Extech RF40 is the most affordable option, but it also has the shortest battery life and the least number of extra features. The Auto Meter 3500 is more expensive, but it has a wider range and resolution, and it also comes with a battery acid test. The Testo 206-2 is the most expensive option, but it has the widest range and resolution of all three, and it also comes with a battery charge indicator.
Ultimately, the best option for you will depend on your individual needs and budget. If you are looking for an affordable option with basic features, the Extech RF40 is a good choice. If you need a more accurate and versatile option, the Auto Meter 3500 or the Testo 206-2 are better choices.
Extech RF40 Pros/Cons and My Thought
The Extech RF40 is a battery-powered refractometer that measures the point of freezing of proplyene or ethylene glycol from -60 to 32 degrees Fahrenheit, and the specific gravity of battery acid from 1.11 to 1.30. It has automatic temperature compensation and requires only 2 or 3 drops of solution. It comes with a case, screwdriver, plastic pipette, and calibration solution.
Pros
- Automatic temperature compensation
- Easy to use
- Requires only 2 or 3 drops of solution
- Comes with a case, screwdriver, plastic pipette, and calibration solution
Cons
- The compensation range for automatic temperature compensation does not cover very low temperatures.
- The packaging is not very exciting.
User Reviews
Positive Reviews
- "This refractometer is very easy to use and does a great job of measuring the point of freezing of proplyene or ethylene glycol and the specific gravity of battery acid. I would definitely recommend it to anyone who needs to measure these things." - Vincent Poolaw
- "This refractometer is a great tool for any automotive enthusiast. It's easy to use and accurate, and it's a great value for the price." - Mohmed Burt
Negative Reviews
- "The automatic temperature compensation only works for temperatures above 32 degrees Fahrenheit. This is not a big deal for most people, but it's something to keep in mind if you live in a cold climate." - Anonymous
- "The packaging for this refractometer is very plain. It's just a plastic case with no instructions or anything. This isn't a big deal, but it's something to keep in mind if you're looking for a refractometer that comes with a lot of extras." - Anonymous
My Thoughts
Overall, I think the Extech RF40 is a great refractometer for the price. It's easy to use, accurate, and comes with everything you need. The only downside is that the automatic temperature compensation doesn't cover very low temperatures. If you live in a cold climate, you may want to consider a refractometer with a wider temperature range.
Here are some other refractometers that you may want to consider:
- Milwaukee 2120-20 Refractometer: This refractometer is a bit more expensive than the Extech RF40, but it has a wider temperature range and comes with a few more extras, such as a carrying case and a USB cable for data transfer.
- Testo 206-2 Refractometer: This refractometer is the most expensive on this list, but it is also the most accurate. It is designed for professional use, but it is also a good choice for serious amateur mechanics.
No matter which refractometer you choose, make sure to read the instructions carefully before using it. Refractometers are delicate instruments, and they can be damaged if they are not used properly.
Extech RF40 Where To Buy
You can buy the Extech RF40 and spare parts from the following places:
- Extech Direct: Extech Direct is the manufacturer's website and they sell the RF40 for $129.99. They also sell a variety of spare parts for the RF40, including probes, batteries, and carrying cases.
- Walmart: Walmart sells the RF40 for $139.99. They also sell a limited selection of spare parts for the RF40, including probes and batteries.
- Amazon: Amazon sells the RF40 for $129.99. They also sell a wide variety of spare parts for the RF40, including probes, batteries, carrying cases, and more.

- Best Buy: Best Buy sells the RF40 for $149.99. They also sell a limited selection of spare parts for the RF40, including probes and batteries.

- Lowes: Lowes sells the RF40 for $149.99. They also sell a limited selection of spare parts for the RF40, including probes and batteries.
- eBay: eBay is a good place to find used or refurbished Extech RF40s. You can also find spare parts for the RF40 on eBay, but be sure to check the seller's reputation before making a purchase.

The best place to buy the Extech RF40 and spare parts will depend on your individual needs and preferences. If you want the lowest price, you may want to consider buying from Extech Direct or eBay. If you want a wider selection of spare parts, you may want to consider buying from Amazon or Best Buy.
Extech RF40 Problems and Solutions
Here are some common issues and problems with the Extech RF40 and their solutions:
- The unit does not turn on.
- Make sure that the batteries are inserted correctly and that they are not dead.
- Try using a different set of batteries.
- If the unit still does not turn on, contact Extech customer service.
- The unit does not pick up any signals.
- Make sure that the unit is in the correct mode for the type of signal you are trying to detect.
- Check the antenna to make sure that it is properly connected and that there are no obstructions in its path.
- Try moving the unit to a different location.
- If the unit still does not pick up any signals, contact Extech customer service.
- The unit is not accurate.
- Make sure that the unit is calibrated properly.
- Check the batteries to make sure that they are not low.
- Try calibrating the unit again.
- If the unit is still not accurate, contact Extech customer service.
Here are some additional tips for troubleshooting problems with the Extech RF40:
- Restart the unit. This may fix some minor problems.
- Update the firmware. Extech releases firmware updates for the RF40 on a regular basis. These updates can fix bugs and improve performance. To update the firmware, download the update from the Extech website and follow the instructions.
- Reset the unit to factory defaults. This will erase all of the unit's settings, including the calibration data. If you are having problems with the unit, you can try resetting it to factory defaults. To reset the unit, hold down the power button and the mode button for five seconds.
If you have tried all of the above and you are still having problems with the Extech RF40, contact Extech customer service for assistance.
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