I drove my tractor into the driver door on my f250 sure felt

 

It's weird that if somebody smashed into my truck in a parking lot I may get upset, but when I do it myself, it's funny. I just broke the news to my wife that I have ordered a new intake, because the rails were pitted from either coolant ,electrolysis, between the old Iron heads and the aluminum intake, or maybe both. I was very surprised when she replied ," oh good, you have to keep it safe (?) Does any one know if zinc (or whatever they use on the hull of a ship) hanging in the radiator would prevent electrolysis?

 

Keeping good coolant in it should be all you need. Modern coolants are designed to keep a neutral ph. They have an indicator in them that stays green as long as they are OK and turns red when they turn acidic.

 

Thanks Pete, I had know Idea, I have always just changed it once a year. When they came out with the orange stuff I had no idea what was what any more. Not that I knew anything to begin with. LOL

 

Yes, years ago Firestone sold antifreeze to dealerships and repair shops that was red when it came out of the drum. That should have been a clue but smaller shops ignored it and in less that a year it would eat through anything aluminum like Jeep thermostat housings. They had quite a big bill to pay and they dragged it out for some time before they finally recalled it all.

 

Jimmy they make "ANODES" for radiators. That is the name of the sacrificial metal to prevent (control) electrolysis.

 

Well done finding your leak. sorry about your ding. "Who put that thing there anyhow?"

 

That should be more that adequate to protect your system. I always use a name brand like Zerex or Prestone even though it is more expensive. Also make sure that your mixture is correct as modern coolants are designed to be mixed with water. I think that 50/50 with water is the max but check the label of whatever you use.

The final caution is to watch the water that you use. Very hard water can cause a ph problem over time by degrading corrosion and antifreeze capabilities of the coolant. If you have any doubts they make antifreeze that does not need to be mixed. I always keep a bottle of that around to top off the cooling systems in all my cars.

 

Jimmy, just when we thought you could do no wrong.....

The never ending hobby of restoration. It will give you something to do..in your spare time!

 

Ahh,ha,ha,ha, Oh Tip that statement actually made me break out in laughter. Me do no wrong? you obviously have me confused with someone else. Thanks I needed that rite about now.