All

Well, I am interested to see what you folks think this could be....

Background - 71 Bronco - 302. New vechicle to me, had some ignigion problems, got that figured out. Upon purchase there was a known "radiator leak". Anyway just bought a new water pump and radiator and was going to put it in - also remove timing chain cover and inspect.

Anyway I have no history on the vehicle, and believe the previous owner had NO mechanical skills (based on a $1200 receipt for a brake job!)

When I opened the pickock (sp?) valve barely any antifreeze came out. Well, the radiator was bad what did I expect? So took off the bottom hose and the fluid drained out into my bucket, garage floor, etc.

The coolant was somewhat green, but no oil residue, and rather dirty.

Next take off the water pump.....

Take off the water pump and noticed that the small pipe(?) that goes to the thermostat (not the big one, and not the one that goes to the heater) was plugged. The material was white/grey, slimy, and a big gritty. Pushing a coat hanger through it unplugged it.....

So here is my delima. I really dont want to put a new radiator back on if this crap is in cooling system, but it is too late to flush it now....

What could this be? I thought that someone had the bright idea of using Stop-Leak-Junk, but who know.

Ideas and advice is always appreciated. BTW - next project is to remove intake manifold and put the Edlebrock 2121 with a 4bbrl.

Thanks

badmechanic

 

I'd clean everything the best you can now then put it all back together fill it up with strait water and a bottle of flush. Do this while the engine is running with the heat on to get everything flowing and lossened up. Then take it out and run it hard, wind it out. Maybe find a chevy and show them why you drive a ford. Then immediatly drain it so nothing settles. If it looks REAL bad you may want to do the same thing over again. When your done and satisfied it's clean fill it up with a 50/50 mix and you'll be good to go.

Evan Shockey
'84 F-150 4x4