Radiator repair

Hi all,

Does anyone know of any tips for cleaning the scale and rust out of a radiator?

I thought about filling it with vinegar because that works well for cleaning the scale out of my coffee pot but I not sure if I should be putting vinegar (weak acid) into a radiator. I could be doing more harm than good.

Any comments? Suggestions? Yes, I know, getting a new radiator would be the best solution, but it's also the most costly thus my last choice.

Thanks David

Reply to
David R. McCoy
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You can get a "rod out" done. This is where the shop removes one tank and runs flattened rods through the tubes to clean out everything. Then they solder it back together. Ususally runs $50 ish if they will touch it. But at $119 for a new radiator, It's really up to you.

Reply to
Mr. Floppy

Be careful about those $119 specials on new units. Many are made overseas and are JUNK.

A good Modine stock unit for a given GM application is $150 or more but carries a lifetime warranty.

There are also good aftermarket performance radiators out there (Griffin, etc), but for most applications, the larger size stock one (heavy duty cooling application) is just fine.

I do agree that most can be fixed reasonably though... Joe--ASE Certified Parts Specialist & 10th Ann.Club Tech Director '80 Carousel Red Turbo T/A, 26k orig. '79 "Y89" 400/4 speed 10th Ann. T/A, 57k orig '84 Olds 88 Royale Bgm 2 dr, 307 "Rocket" (lol), 141k and still going.... '80 T/A project car...

Reply to
Bigjfig

Thanks guys,

I was hoping to hear from someone who had a good experience with one of the over the counter radiator cleaners. I have used a few in the past but haven't been satisfied with their results.

Reply to
David R. McCoy

None of those chemicals are strong enough to be much benefit.

Reply to
Big Dav160

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