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Old 04-29-2013, 11:42 AM   #14
Bob Johnson
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Join Date: May 2010
Location: California
Posts: 977
Default Re: Radiator cleaning

You father's radiator cleaner contained oxalic acid and sodium bicarbinate. It came in a 2 part container. The oxalic acid was used to clean the radiator and the sodium bicarbonate was used to neutralize the ocalic acid after the flush. Sodium bicarbonate is baking soda which can be found at most grocery stores. Oxalic acid can be found a most hardware / home improvement stores, it is used to bleach wood decks.

The procedure was:

Drain radiator
Fill radiator with water and about 1/2 - 1 cup oxalic acid, be careful with acid
Start engine and run until normal operating temperature is achieved
Idle or drive around for 1/2 to 1 hour
Drain radiator
Flush with water
Fill radiator with water and 1/2 cup of sodium bicarbonate
Start engine and run until water is well mixed
Drain radiator
Flush radiator
Fill radiator with coolant.

WARNING Oxalic acid is a mild acid but it can still harm skin and eyes. WEAR rubber gloves and eye protection when using oxalic acid.


Bob
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