Cascade as radiator flush?

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Bonnewagon

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I have to replace the water pump and I see the 2 year old coolant is really filthy. I have not had much luck with commercial flushes. The idea of using Cascade dish washing machine soap as a flush is all over the 'net with pros and cons. I am concerned because I have an aluminum radiator and it says right on the box that aluminum pans may become discolored or damaged by this product. Yet, some swear by it. I'm thinking a radiator is a better grade alloy than a frying pan. What say ye?
 

81msw79

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i seen on one episode of hotrod magazine on you tube they used wisk laundry detergent to flush a dirty radiator. if anything it will smell medow fresh and clean. :rofl:

not sure if it is the greatest idea but it may work.
 

ssn696

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I used some Cascade to flush a cooling system after the oil cooler let go inside the radiator. 5 flushes later, the powder was still coming out. So, no, I'd not recommend it.
 

81msw79

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i would not recommend powdered stuff to flush a radiator. liquid i still be skeptical but may be easier to clean out. how bad is your cooling system?
 

Bonnewagon

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You are supposed to dissolve the powder first, then add it to the cooling system. The reason for using dishwasher machine soap is that it does not foam, and rinses off easily, like in the dishwasher. As for my cooling system, it is so dirty I thought it was an oil leak at first. I don't understand why because I flushed it pretty well last time and added fresh coolant along with a new water pump. I'm also pissed the pump crapped out so fast. I would hate to replace the pump and put fresh coolant into a dirty system again. That is why I want to run cleaner through before I swap pumps. Right now it's around 1 degree out but a warm rainy day is coming soon and I will do it then.
 

ssn696

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I did try to dissolve it in hot water first, but the stuff was cloudy, and when I dumped it in, it was not all dissolved....my bad.
 
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Use the liquid stuff, as said the powder may not dissolve. The Finish Quantum tablets are best cleaning by far but do have powder in them. I have used the liquid without problem and don't be stingy.
 

Bonnewagon

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I will try the liquid then. I found that Cascade has a Ph of around 10 which is bad for aluminum. But I also found a report that says silicate is added to protect aluminum.
 

Bonnewagon

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She's used to it. Hey Steve, did you say you managed to do your Jeep water pump without removing the fans and shroud? I can barely see the damn thing.
 
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