Cooling system flush

[viiking]

Following on from my seized engine debacle post below I’m restarting my effort to try and do SOMETHING constructive with my engine.

After 35+ years of sitting idle all the cooling system parts are encrusted with scale. I was intending to submerge these in a 10% solution of citric acid to try and clean them. I’ve had great success with citric acid derusting steel but haven’t yet tried it on alloy.

I note that Mercedes uses a citric acid solution on diesel trucks to effect such cleaning.

Given the engine is not assembled and therefore cannot get hot it will just be soaked in containers. This will at least allow some regular inspection and brushing of the parts to dislodge sediment.

Has anyone else have any experience, tips or suggestions about this approach?

[LanciaFin]

Hi, because Flavia engine is aluminum, oxalic acid is better choice. Just don't let it enter any sealing and bearing surfaces, and don't leave it soaking for many hours without observation. Rinse well.