Radiator Service

[nevets]

I'm in the process of removing my leaky water pump. Now that the radiator is out, is it worth taking it to a radiator shop for cleaning? The car doesn't overheat, there was no rust in the coolant when I drained it, and the radiator doesn't leak. Thanks.

 

[gonzo]

Suggest a reverse-flush with garden hose then plug outlet, fill to top and release outlet plug. Observe flow. It should be steady and fairly rapid (gushing). Anything less would suggest partial blockage and visit to rad shop. Good luck.

 

[Bob_Spidell]

Gonzo has it right, BUT--there's always a 'but'--I'd consider how many years/miles on the radiator and how expensive/convenient a rod/cleaning is (there aren't a lot of shops around anymore that work on radiators; they're pretty much disposable on newer cars). If it's been in the car for more than 10 years and/or 50K miles I'd probably do it on general principles; though not a terrible job, R&R a Healey radiator is still a bit of work.

 

[nevets]

Thanks guys. I researched rod cleaning and it seems to be a lost art, though I suppose I may find a shop that still does it? Think I'll start with a reverse-flush with fill & release outlet plug.

 

[John Turney]

I would do a backflush cleaning. Turn it upside down so the flow is the reverse of normal to knock out particles that have stuck in the tube inlets.

 

[steveg]

I made this quickie setup for backflushing and collecting the debris. Woman's short stocking as filter. Careful to not get too much water pressure because of heater.

Had radiator out, so backflushed that separately.

 

[bdcvg]

Check semi-truck repair shops, some of them still have hot tanks.