Surface Rust in Coolant Passages.

[philcobill]

There is surface rust in the engine coolant passages in my 29 Special Coupe. The rust in the photo looks worse than it really is. I poked my finger into the holes and was able to almost wipe it off. I did not see any scaling or blocked passages in the block, and I imagine that things are okay below where I can't see.

My question is, is this something that I need to address now or should I wait and treat things after I get the head back on and things buttoned up? What would be the best way to address this?

Also, there are some minor scratches on the block. How should I addressed those?

Bill

 

[edzaha]

Flush it and forget it, not that bad

 

[alexiskai]

Address it after the system is sealed, using a de-rusting product like Thermocure or Rust911. Users of this forum have reported success with both; just follow the directions.

 

[mercman from oz]

Surface Rust in Coolant Passages.

 

[Tom Wesenberg]

Turn it upside down and blow out the junk shown in the picture.

 

[updraught]

First off, i'd get a Gano filter or similar to stop the rust chunks blocking the radiator, especially if it is a new one.

 

[Bob Bidonde]

The rust you see is normal.

 

[Chuck Sea/Tac]

I think if you run some flex cable thru the passages you can, you’ll have more than surface rust coming out.

 

[SteveB31]

Run 50/50 anti freeze and this will not happen on the future

 

[Tom Wesenberg]

Run 50/50 anti freeze and this will not happen on the future

For sure, and it will also save many blocks from cracking during the winter months.

 

[PC/SR]

Not a problem. Run anti freeze or rust inhibitor.