Different radiator problem

M

Mad Mac

Senior Member
The radiator water in my stock 29 RPU is clear without any sign of rust, but I think it is slowly getting clogged up with grease, which I have introduced via the grease cap on the water pump. I have also used neats-foot oil in the water to prevent rust forming. Even though I use water-soluble grease, I think I have put too much of both products in over a long period and am now losing cooling efficiency. The radiator does not over-heat during driving, but starts to get very hot when I leave it idling even for 2 or 3 minutes. Should I now put detergent into the water and if so, how much and what kind?
 
Try a mild solution of washing soda and water. Let the solution stay in the engine and radiator while the engine is running until the engine gets good and warm. Drain the engine and radiator and then introduce just clear water. This advise was given to me by an old time radiator man. Vinegar is also a good substitute. John
 
While we were on one of our outback trips, one of the guys had a similar problem. He solved it with a handful of laundry powder but he ran into a problem when it foamed so much, the pump was circulating a thick foam like shaving cream. That didn't cool very well at all. From his experience, I now use a couple of dishwasher tablets. They don't foam. I repeat as many times as necessary to get the grease out. Then and only then, I use vinegar to dissolve any rust. If you do that, be careful when you empty the spent vinegar solution - it will stain anything.
Don't ask how I know this stuff!
 
Tips
1. Get rid of the water pump. Go greaseless.
2. Our radiator shop has been in business for over 40 years. They recommend filling the radiator with a detergent like Mr. Clean and water and run it for a day or 2. Then flush with plan water then add coolant.
 
Don't use regular grease for water pump lube, they have greaseless lube but sometimes it's hard to find, I use K-Y in mine
 
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