Aluminum heads, copper radiatorS

[johnbeck]

I'm putting my rebuilt 302 back in and need a new radiator and a new heater core. The heads are aluminum. Is electrolisis a problem if I use a copper radiator and/or a copper heater core? Has anyone experienced a significant problem of electrolisis with dissimiliar metals in their engine components, did you install a sacrificial annode? Thanks

 

[Bferrari]

I haven't had any issues or significant problems however I did install a sacrificial annode on mine. I am of the theory that it is better to be safe than sorry.

 

[blubuckaroo]

It's very common to see used aluminum intake manifolds with severe pitting around the coolant ports. That's why aluminum manifolds are expendable parts. That same electrolysis can happen to any aluminum part with coolant running through it. The issue is the yellow metal, iron, and aluminum in the same coolant. It's electrolysis. It's the same method a battery uses to store electricity.

 

[johnbeck]

I have an Edelbroc intake which is aluminum. Would installing the copper heater core and a copper radiator be the wrong choice? Anyone with copper electrolisis experience? I'm planning on making purchases this week. Thanks

 

[blubuckaroo]

I have an Edelbroc intake which is aluminum. Would installing the copper heater core and a copper radiator be the wrong choice? Anyone with copper electrolisis experience? I'm planning on making purchases this week. Thanks

Electrolysis is to be expected. There are sacrificial anodes available, but the best you can do is to flush the cooling system at least every two years and keep the anti-freeze at the appropriate concentration.

 

[Broncobowsher]

Aluminum heads would be no different than an aluminum intake. And that has been done since before antifreeze was invented. No new issues.

 

[johnbeck]

Thanks, I believe in regularly changing fluids, including coolant. Electrolysis an addressed issue, copper or aluminum heater core and radiator?

 

[jagbucket]

wire everything up to a marine zinc for extra insurance in addition to the pencil anode in the radiator

 

[johnbeck]

The marine zinc sounds great. How do I wire it in? Thanks