Help Understanding dissimilar metals and coolant

[Cortez]

I recently installed a new aluminum intake manifold on my 351w and was putting all the front dress back on when my wife said, “you really should put in a new radiator”.

“Ok” was my answer. So I started looking at the topic today on CB and found some useful information. I’m still a bit confused about the electrolysis that can occur between dissimilar metal?!?

I have cast iron heads, aluminum intake, cast iron thermostat housing and now looking at an aluminum radiator. I’ve never had to be concerned with this so someone please give me a summary guidance if this mix of parts is ok or am I creating a problem? Assumed the anode radiator cap would help but is that sufficient?

Thanks,
Dave

 

[SteveL]

I've never had a problem with it on an aluminum manifold but I know the aluminum radiators go to crap quick if you dont treat em extra special. The front timing covers like to corrode easy too.

 

[SHX669]

I've been using distilled water and an anode radiator cap with my aluminum radiator for 10+ years and have had no problems.
When I bought the '76 the PO had the battery grounded to the aluminum intake manifold. I broke that bolt off trying to remove it along with several water pump bolts . There was some considerable corrosion .

 

[rmk57]

Iv'e been using Prestone a/f, the green stuff, for 50 years in my Mustang. It has aluminum heads and intake and had them off last fall and their like new. I live in the northwest so we have nice soft water here which helps a bit.

I also have a 57 Ford with aluminum heads, intake and radiator that are around 8 years old and they are also in very nice shape with the same old Prestone a/f.

The key here is to keep the your coolant at around a 50/50 mix and you should be fine.

 

[Cortez]

Thanks all - appreciate the feedback

 

[DirtDonk]

And unlike what we (or maybe it was just me?) used to do, don't get lax with the coolant changes. If it says every other year, do it every other year. Not every three years maybe.
The aluminum radiators will thank you for it.

Paul

 

[Steve83]

If you use good coolant (NOT long-life; NOT 50/50 premix), and change it on-schedule, it doesn't matter what metals you use, and you don't need a special cap. Click & read these:



http://www.fourdoorbronco.com/board/showthread.php?t=5230

 

[Cortez]

Thanks - I will admit that I have been guilty of negligence when it comes to coolant changes but now understand better the reasons why.;D

 

[Bronco Maniac]

And don't forget to change out your cap with the anode when it is depleted.