dirty radiator fluid

[drewtorn]

turns rusty/dirty color even after flushing, does not leak or overheatshould I replace radiator? Thanks

[dcg129]

Maybe. Very rusty indicates a lack of maintence. You need a HD flush product and many flushes. Be sure to put on your heater to circulate and clean that section of the cooling section. After many flushes it should clear up. After it runs clean, be sure to add a few bottles of rust inhibitor with your antifreeze. Just because the antifreeze reads ok does not mean that the rust inhibitors are still working. Once a year you should add a bottle of Rust and water pump lube to balance the PH, etc..its cheep ant Walmart. Probally should change the hoses too for good measure of insurance after you flush. Clean and reuse the old hoses to speed up the clean out. old antifreeze was good for 15 -25k if you didn't add rust inhibitor and water pump lube. I add a bottle every year. The new stuff last longer but its a good insurance policy to have the antifreeze tested every year with an acid paper test and coolent range test when you clean your battery terminals, check belts, tires, etc. for your pre winter check up

[dcg129]

The HD flush might clean so well it may open up some pin holes. a 1990 Raditor has seen most of its life. Do u intend on keeping the car long. A junk yard Raditor may be just as used as the one you have. Rebuilts are allmost as expensive as new ones. The rust is coming from the engine too. you may want to change the Temp guages too

[rotorimp]

Problem is your probably the first person EVER to change the fluid--cast iron blocks sure can rust!!! try rmoving the t-stat throw the hose on there and let the water run,