Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) crystals on radiator

[jlccc]

I too just noticed crystals growing on the top of my radiator. I got out my DVM and measured 0. 15V difference between the radiator and the negative post on the battery. In my mind, this is WAY TOO MUCH of a difference.



I think I understand what causes this--a bad ground somewhere and some stray current is using the radiator as a return leg to ground. Correct?



Since several members have mentioned this recently, has anyone found a common cause? Any suggestions? LSMITH? ILLFLEM? Help!



Thx.

 

[jrollins]

I have noticed them on mine also but they are very few and far between, so i never worry but, my guess is yea it could be a bad ground, if this is true it sounds like we all have it, but i believe that the inter-cooler could be the culprit. I am sure that when air is forced through the inter-cooler and cooled it only would seem logical that some static electricity should be formed, since the radiator is just a skip & a jump from the inter-cooler that would make better since to me.

 

[illflem]

What is electrolysis and how detect and prevent it

Here's a part of a bulletin I received pertaining to replacing an electrolysis/acid damaged radiator.



Electrolysis



What is it? Chemical change, especially decomposition, produced in an electrolyte by an electric current.



What causes it? Most likely it is caused by improper vehicle grounding. Electrical grounding problems can stem from poor installation of aftermarket accessories or uncorrected vehicle collision damages.



How to detect it? First, test your antifreeze with ph test paper. It should be neutral or some what alkaline. If the coolant has been effected by a stray current it will be acidic. Another way to test would be with a voltage meter to see if there is a difference in the coolant voltage and your vehicle ground.



How do you fix it? 1) You must find and correct the electrical problem (stray current) pulling fuses one at a time till the stray voltage disappears is a start. 2) You will need to completely flush your entire cooling system. Acidic contaminated antifreeze left in the engine block will eventually ruin another radiator. 3) Once the new radiator is installed, you must use only new quality antifreeze and distilled water. Never use recycled antifreeze or tap water. 4) Once everything is installed properly you need to retest the system, insuring the coolant is neutral to alkaline.