Radiator Electrolysis

[Doc Fizzix]

My new all aluminum radiator came with a big warning tag on the radiator that said DO NOT USE with brass fittings or the radiator would fail from electrolysis.

I had heard about Radiator Electrolysis but never knew how bad it could be and how common it was, it turns out that the Elan is a perfect candidate for this damaging process. After searching the web, I was amazed at what I found out about the process and at the same time I was concerned when I realized that my cars cooling system (before I put in my new motor) had all major symptoms of Electrolysis. Many of the aluminum connectors and cooling lines within the cooling system had extreme pitting and holes. At the connections between rubber hoses and aluminum fittings the aluminum had a black discoloration and there was also a white powder that had built up between the contact points. When I originally got the car the fluid had not been changed for some time and it was very brown with lot of rust. Many of the steel and/or iron connections were very corroded with large build-ups of rust, this is also another warning sign.

Without going into everything I suggest all Elan owners read the following write-up and be aware of the dangers of not maintaing the cooling sytem and or checking the voltage from time-to-time. The Elan uses an aluminum radiator and this can increase the process of electrolysis if the system is not maintained correctly.

http://www.sancarlosradiator.com/electrolysis.htm

[Dave M]

Good point, Doc. I had a similar discussion with the guy who built my custom radiator years ago (as the radiator was make out of some copper and brass bits, not all aluminium) and my engine builder. I vaugely remember the consensus was to use a good coolant, change it regularily, and things should be fine, but the article has some good points.

[dermotbell]

Some interesting stuff.

When I first got my car I changed the coolant and it wasn't the best colour. I will recheck I think.

Time to figure out how to use that voltmeter.