White residue found inside radiator

Eric Kozmic

Well Known Member
Supporting Member 8
Just wanted to clarify that EDTA is actually an "acid" (EhyleneDiamineTetraacetic Acid) so it would lower the pH of the solution it's in (ie a radiator). It's the lower pH that actually "cleans" the radiator. EDTA is an excellent chelating agent (binding agent) that captures iron, calcium, and other salts and helps to soften and dissolve the "crud" and remove it from your cooling system.

With regards to the "white residue" within your radiator, I would say it's mainly "dissolved solids" that have been left over from years of using "tap water" to top off ones radiator. (Think of boiling a pot of tap water to "dryness". These dissolved solids are what's left in the pot after the water is boiled off.)

That's why it's best to use the the pre-blended mix of 50/50 antifreeze. Our you can also use demineralized or distilled water to fill up your radiator after the appropriate level of antifreeze has been introduced.

Chemisty lesson of the day is over. Go out and have a great one!!!
 
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