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-   -   radiator bubbles? (http://forums.mustangworks.com/showthread.php?t=24679)

66StangGuy 06-05-2002 03:07 AM

radiator bubbles?
 
ever since i got my mustang iv had this problem. i will fill the radiator with proper coolant and everything. runs cool and no problems but when i turn the motor off i get foam out of the overflow tube. i was told this was because my hose clamps werent tight and letter air in and making bubbles. tried making sure they were all tight but still bubles. if i run my radiator with just water i have no problems. i know its not just extra excaping because it will continue to do that untill half of my coolant is gone. this only happens when i turn the car off. i also have a new rad. cap thats a 13 pound. iv ben told to go to a 16 pound but it will still foam. any ideas?

PKRWUD 06-05-2002 05:27 AM

Two points to understand here:

First, coolant retains heat, and raises the boiling temp of the fluid. Loosely translated, that means the fluid will be hotter, but will resist boiling.

Second, In order for the cooling system to avoid boiling over, it must be sealed. Loose hose clamps are a possibility, but a weak cap is more like it. The lower the pressure rating of the cap, the sooner the fluid will overflow.

Now, since the coolant allows the fluid temp to be higher, more pressure is created. With more pressure, you need a higher rated pressure cap. I would go too a 16 or 17 pound STANT LeverVent cap, and make sure you don't have more than 20% coolant (w/ 80% water) in the system.

Take care,
-Chris

66StangGuy 06-05-2002 11:07 PM

ok those are good points. but my problem is the coolant foaming up not coolant leaking out. maybe i didnt explain this enough. its not actually liquid its just foam. also any reason why this only happens after i turn the engine off?

PKRWUD 06-06-2002 07:27 PM

Okay. I still think you should replace the cap, but you should also run a compression check. Foaming is often a sign of a head gasket failure or a crack.

Take care,
-Chris


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