Why is my radiator full of mud?
Corrosion is the most common cause of sludge build-up in a radiator. As it loses its protective qualities, PH levels change and corrosion sets in. Once this begins, rust, sludge and scale build up through the entire cooling system, including the engine.
What is the sludge in my radiator?
Radiator sludge is a mix of dirt and rust. This builds up over time and gathers at the bottom of your radiators. The sludge stops hot water flowing through your system properly. This creates cold areas on your radiator.
What causes sludge to build up in the radiator?
Radiators are made of metal. Over time, antifreeze degrades. As it loses its protective qualities, PH levels change and corrosion sets in. Once this begins, rust, sludge and scale build up through the entire cooling system, including the engine. The sludge can block the flow of coolant, causing the engine to overheat and leak.
What to do if you have mud stuck in your Radiator?
In 2008 a class-action lawsuit with GM was settled over DexCool. Here’s a nice video showing the resulting mud stuck in the system. Some common suggestions to help flush it (rather than having to replace the radiator and engine) is adding a bit of dishwashing detergent to your radiator and driving around for a few days.
What causes an oil leak in a radiator?
By far the most likely cause for this is, as you guessed, a head gasket leak, allowing oil to leak through to the cooling system. This often happens not long before complete failure of the head gasket and potentially major damage to the engine, so get it to a garage now for a new gasket, radiator flush, check on rad pump etc.
Why are additives dropping out of my radiator?
Additives dropping out: Coolant consists of a base (typically ethylene glycol or propylene glycol) mixed with additives and water. The base is primarily responsible for providing freeze and boil-over protection. The additives guard against corrosion, cavitation and scaling.