ia-k Posted March 25, 2021 Share Posted March 25, 2021 Changing out the anti-freeze/coolant along with the radiator and heater hoses in my mid-80s Chrysler. Removed the overflow tank for better access to the lower radiator hose and have attempted to clean the inside of the tank. Hot water, various soaps/cleaners, shaking it, and letting it sit for several days has gotten some of it out. Still more in there, especially on the underside of the curves and along where the hot/cold level is. Any ides on what to use to get this stuff out. I know there will always be some staining but this stuff looks like pond algae stuck to the sides. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
JCHansen1 Posted March 25, 2021 Share Posted March 25, 2021 Have you tried vinegar? I'd keep it away from the coolant tank hoses, as rubber and vinegar don't mix well, but it should be good on the plastic. 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
TAKerry Posted March 25, 2021 Share Posted March 25, 2021 36 minutes ago, JCHansen1 said: Have you tried vinegar? I'd keep it away from the coolant tank hoses, as rubber and vinegar don't mix well, but it should be good on the plastic. This may work, or maybe bleach? If its the typical 80's plastic part I dont think there is anything you can to make it look new again. Not sure of the availability but after trying to clean and clean I finally broke down and bought new for my 77 pontiac. 1 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
ia-k Posted March 25, 2021 Author Share Posted March 25, 2021 No need to be perfect, just so I can see the coolant level. I don’t think this stuff is a stain or discoloration as where I could reach with a piece of cloth on a wooden dowel it would come off. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
HarryLime Posted March 25, 2021 Share Posted March 25, 2021 Youtube search "radiator tank clean" shows some very effective methods . 2 Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Bloo Posted March 25, 2021 Share Posted March 25, 2021 I did this successfully years ago with some industrial detergent/cleaner concentrate from Costco and steel shot. Shake it up. I don't remember what the detergent was but it was something that mixed with water. Whatever it was, the supply dried up over a decade ago. I have a hunch Oil Eater might substitute. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
bryankazmer Posted March 25, 2021 Share Posted March 25, 2021 In general, the polyolefin tank will be OK with aqueous cleaners like bleach or acid(vinegar). Avoid hydrocarbon solvent-based materials. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
zepher Posted March 25, 2021 Share Posted March 25, 2021 4 hours ago, HarryLime said: Youtube search "radiator tank clean" shows some very effective methods . I second the YT search. There are many well done videos on how to clean up a plastic overflow tank. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Rusty_OToole Posted March 26, 2021 Share Posted March 26, 2021 I've used detergent and water with a mop made of rags tied to a wire coat hanger. The wire can be bent to reach all corners. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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