Rusty Engine - What should I do?

[81GMCSierra]

So I am a total noob to restoration.

I recently went in the engine compartment and took a bunch of parts off. When I disconnected the thermostat housing and the lower radiator hose I notice that the interior of the engine is very rusty.

The truck ran a few months ago when I bought it but I hadn't tried since. I am nervous that if I replace all of these peripheral parts that the engine itself with no longer be functioning. I

Suggestions? Is there a way to test it? Is there something I can do to flush it?

 

[Skweegle89]

So I am a total noob to restoration.

I recently went in the engine compartment and took a bunch of parts off. When I disconnected the thermostat housing and the lower radiator hose I notice that the interior of the engine is very rusty.

The truck ran a few months ago when I bought it but I hadn't tried since. I am nervous that if I replace all of these peripheral parts that the engine itself with no longer be functioning. I

Suggestions? Is there a way to test it? Is there something I can do to flush it?

Rust in there is pretty normal if the motor is very old. Constant supply of water/coolant through those passages over time will result in rust. What color was your coolant? A nice green color or brown and nasty looking? You can flush the coolant system and start with fresh new coolant if you want.

 

[81GMCSierra]

I dont know. Most of the fluids are gone. All of the reservoirs had cracks in them. Where should I look?

 

[Skweegle89]

Open the radiator cap. Or better yet, put a 5 gallon bucket under the radiator and open the valve in the bottom corner and drain it


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[81GMCSierra]

It's empty. I just took it out.

 

[350runner]

The lack if radiator antifreeze is what will rust a block quick. Someone's been using water instead of antifreeze huh?

Sent from the dust in front of you!

 

[Skweegle89]

If the radiator was empty and it ran when you parked it,
You likely have bigger problems that engine rust. How long ago did you park it?


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[81GMCSierra]

In September.

 

[Skweegle89]

Your best bet is the flush it all out and fill it up with new coolant. You likely have a leak somewhere if all your coolant leaked out, but you should be able to find it while flushing the system.


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