Cooling System Flush. 63 Years of Crud Removed

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Sep 14, 2015 | 08:22 PM

Scotty's 52 F3

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From: Marana, Arizona

Cooling System Flush. 63 Years of Crud Removed

This is upper radiator hose pipe AFTER 3 days of a vinegar soak. The water jackets had a thick layer of yellow chalky stuff. The vinegar softened it but did not remove it. The thermostats were encrusted and I couldn't get them out of the water outlets.

Sep 14, 2015 | 08:24 PM

Scotty's 52 F3

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From: Marana, Arizona

I decided to use some phosphoric acid to flush. This is after two days of soaking. I used 50/50 mix with water.

Sep 14, 2015 | 08:26 PM

Scotty's 52 F3

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From: Marana, Arizona

Here's a closer look into the block. Super clean. The rust you see is just flash rust. I hit it with WD-40 before I snapped pic.

Sep 14, 2015 | 08:28 PM

Scotty's 52 F3

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From: Marana, Arizona

I soaked the water outlets in straight phosphoric acid about 15 minutes. Here's how they came out.

Looks like original T-stats. 8RT-8785 B. Jan. 1952

Sep 14, 2015 | 08:33 PM

Scotty's 52 F3

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Here's what I cleaned system with. Great for parts too. NOT aluminum.

I am replacing or rebuilding my water pumps so I didn't care if I took out seals with cleaner. I have the radiator in for service. It looks like original tanks but has been re cored. Has a 4 row with tag saying 1996.

Shop says 20% plugged but good to rod out. Should be done tomorrow.

Sep 14, 2015 | 08:36 PM

Scotty's 52 F3

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From: Marana, Arizona

I should have taken more pics. The water jackets were BAD. I have to replace the water pipes. Areas under hose and clamps are full of holes.

I don't want an over heating flathead in this desert heat. Looks good to go now.

Sep 14, 2015 | 09:44 PM

38 coupe

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From: Houston

A clean block, clean radiator, good water pumps, and good thermostats are requirements for a cool running flathead. Looks like you are doing it right.

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Sep 15, 2015 | 02:09 PM

ALBUQ F-1

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From: NM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 38 coupe

A clean block, clean radiator, good water pumps, and good thermostats are requirements for a cool running flathead. Looks like you are doing it right.

Exactly! I've had zero problems since doing those things, even in 100 degree weather.

Good job Scotty!