Radiator...clean with vinigar?

R

Richardtx

Member
I have seen where vinigar is used to clean radiators. What is the ratio to water and do you have to neutralize after? Thanks
 
I haven't done the vinegar enema on mine but have read that others have followed with a baking soda rinse to neutralize afterward. Makes sense to me.
 
It is not an very strong acid, (acetic is literally defined as a weak acid, although bitter to the taste) vinegar, just seems to be one that works good, especially for calcium carbonate (coffee pot residue, e.g., which is usually one of the main components that cause blockage). It also works some on the rust (iron oxides) which most water has some of, and which can also arise from the iron parts of the engine. I am told that citric acid is also excellent, and that it cleans a couple of ions that most things won't touch). I have not noticed it for sale anywhere, though. It seems like wanting a neutral solution as Ol Henry comments above, would make good sense so as not to subsequently develop more deposits brought on by the alkalinity or acidity of the water. Does anyone know if a person should shoot for exactly neutral ph in his cooling system, or is there reasons it might pay to favor one way or the other? I would think leaving it slightly basic might combat against future calcium carbonate plugging, just not sure if it would matter to rubberhoses and components.
 
Avoiding tap water is one of the best ways to avoid calcium deposits, especially in my area where all of the water comes out of the ground so is very "hard." Most that care use only distilled water in the cooling system. Doesn't cost much and prevents all contaminants and minerals from tap water entering the system.
 
I cleaned my radiator (out of the car) with muriatic acid, flushed and neutralized with baking soda and water. The tubes and tanks look nice and clean. Lots of crap came outta there! Then put it back in and ran 4 gallons distilled white vinegar for awhile. Drained that and drove 10 miles with baking soda and water (1 tbs per gallon) and it was already running considerably cooler (at least 25 degrees but it's only 78 today). Flushed and refilled with soda and water. Gonn put coolant and rust inhibitor back in tomorrow.
 
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