radiator flush

B

Bob SMF

Junior Member
I bought some prestone radiator flush for my 8ba. Is this stuff OK to use in the old flatheads? It says to run it for 10 minutes and then flush it out with plain water. Why just 10 minutes? Thanks. Getting this Ford ready for Tahoe. Bob
 
Bob SMF ....................
Don't waste your time and money with commercial radiator flush. The EPA has made it almost useless.
Instead try running straight vinegar for several days. It is a mild acid and will loosen the rust, sludge, etc. It is not harmful to the environment, either.
MIKE :)
 
I agree with Mike. I used to use Prestone Super Radiator Cleaner (way more powerful than just the flush that you're talking about) with great success but no more; hardly touches the corrosion any more. I haven't tried the vinegar yet but probably will before any summer mountain climbs this year.

For the procedure of thoroughly backflushing both halves of the flathead at the same time see my detailed explanation here: http://www.fordbarn.com/forum/showthread.php?t=83557
 
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Vinegar works as well as some of the prouducts used to descale home dishwasher.
i use vinegar to soak rusted parts in as well.
I believe there have been a few threads about this over on theHAMB site as well.
Torchie
 
I've used a product called Rydlyme in marine engines / heat exchangers for years. The stuff is AMAZING! Doesn't attack anything other than buildup and renders a cooling system like new. They say it is good for the automotive industry. I wonder if it would work OK on a system with a flatty...
 
I Like The Vinegar, Then Flush And Run Tide Laundry Detergent ( 1/2 Cup Powder) For About A Week Then Drain. I Always Use Distilled Water.
 
WE-RE talking about WHITE VINEGAR, and as close as 100 percent ?....go back and read Mikes post .....OLD....BILL
 
I used 100 white vinegar drove it around for a week with it than flushed with baking soda to neutralize the acid. Worked great
 
Thanks Bill, I re-read Mike's post. Duh!! Is the baking soda routine a good idea after the vinegar?
 
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