So that's what it is. Bought the truck about a month or two ago for not too much - $1200 (a 1988 basic 22R 5 speed ) and I've been fixing little gremlins here and there, and now I stumbled upon this one. I can get a new radiator, I guess, for $75, but since it's almost Christmas time and my $$$ is going to volatilize real soon , I'd like to know if I could dissolve the calcium deposits instead. I googled it and found that you can use vinegar to this end. Has anyone here tried that and does it work? Or do I need a new rad?
Any comments are appreciated.

 

Is the buid-up restricting the flow of the radiator? If not It can probably wait till after christmas. As for the vinegar as long as it doesnt chow the aluminum it should work but it might break up in big flakes and clog in tight areas. If you try it let is soak for a couple days then flush it and repeat for one more day and see if shet is still coming out.

 

Is the radiator stock?? If so it is not aluminum !
And yes this will help rid the problem!
I'd also flush many times!!

 

Thanks guys! The calcium deposits seem to restrict the flow a bit, as they're about as thick as a nickel all around the pipes going up and down the radiator and the truck runs a bit hot even with these winter temperatures (I live in SLC, UT and it is cold here) I doubt the radiator is stock. I'll try that on the weekend and will report back. Thanks for your feedback!

 

Ya man flush it out with water a whole bunch of times after you use vinegar.

 

Check & see what neutralizes vinegar,I think it may be baking soda. If so make up a gal or more mixture with distilled water!

 

Hm, Now I was told that the vinegar, if left overnight, is going to eat up my gaskets... Whaddya guys think...?