Removing Rust from Cooling System
I am hearing some mixed advice for removing some rust from the cooling jackets in an engine block. I searched through here and did not see much posted, unless I missed something.
I have the head off and all jackets are exposed. When I cleaned the rust from my fuel tank I soaked it in vinegar with much success. It seems here I need a flushing agent of some sort. I have seen some use diluted citric acid, others with just coolant flush.
Advice?
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Removing Rust from Cooling System
I remember seeing something about this on another site when I was asking about rust in the flathead motor that I got when I bought an old 49 ford. One of the items that someone mentioned was using muriatic acid. Here is a quote I found about that process.
“ Muriatic acid causes hydrogen embrittlement in carbon and alloy steel, cast iron, some stainless steels and aluminum alloys. During the "pickling" process, the material takes on available hydrogen atoms from the acid. This causes what is called "hydrogen embrittlement." Hydrogen embrittlement causes the material to fracture along sheer planes more easily. Thus, the strength of the part is greatly diminished.”
It might be better to have the block professionally dipped. I know that using vinegar breaks up the rust, but it will sooner than later show up in your radiator.
Larry