radiator flakes/coolant level low

[Sri Ram]

A couple of months ago I flushed the radiator and changed the coolant because the level was low and I saw scaly flakes on the fins in there. Now the coolant level in the reservior is below the min. again Yet, I can't find a leak. Where does the coolant go? What should I do about the flakes? I'm getting a hose kit from Piers any day now. Is it time to overhaul the cooling system? Any help appreciated.

 

[Sri Ram]

Genius

No replies! I thought you guys knew everything!? How about these product sthat strip scale––or mineral deposits, I guess––from the radiator fins? Anyone used it? Does it also strip off the stuff we use to patch up leaks?

 

[ARhine]

I have used the prestone one that says to leave it in for several days then drain it. Seemed to work well. I usually put straight water in and drain it about 3 times though, running a day inbetween, to get it all out of the system.



The 30min quick flush stuff I stay away from.

 

[Moab4x4]

This kind of cleaner ( and even clean antifreeze sometimes) can clean out any "stop-leak" deposits as well. If you have used stop leak in the past, I would certainly have a new can on hand for after the cleanup.

Good Luck with the deposits. Somewhere I read the recommendation to replace your coolant with a 50/50 antifreeze and DISTILLED water mix. This reduces the deposit issue if you have water like mine.

 

[Sri Ram]

thanks

Thanks for the replies. I think I answered my own question. In reading on TDR, seems like most folks replace their radiator when it gets bad rather than service it (ie re-work the core, etc). In talking to folks 'round here, seems like although the prestone stuff arhine mentioned will flush the system nicely, it won't do much in the way of removing the scale; BUT, the scale won't necessarily harm performance that much. Sooooo, I guess it's a vote in favor of regular flushing.



As for my leak, I bought a new cap (which means new seal) and checked the snugness of the reservior return line (seemed a little loose). No sign of any leaks.



Piers kit is on the truck. It looks good. One of the old clamps was just rattling around agains the intercooler, so I guess I done good. Now, I'm looking for an aftermarket upgrade kit for the radiator hoses.

 

[TKingsbury]

On the debate over repair/replace, I would say it depends on if you have a GOOD radiator shop nearby. If so, they can rod it out and re-solder everything good as new for alot less than new.

Travis. .