Radiator sludge?

1996 DODGE RAM
153,000 MILES
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TOMMCCMN
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
1996 Dodge Ram Pickup 5.2 318 engine. 153000 miles. Took off the radiator cap and found a brown/gray foamy sludge. Looked like something from a baby diaper. The same substance was in the overflow res. Drained and refilled the radiator. Drove 20 min. to work today, checked before I left for home and the same substance was there again. Ran fine. Didn't overheat. HELP!! Don't know what this might be or what to do but I'm quickly losing confidence in my truck. ANYONE??
Jul 18, 2011 at 4:55 PM
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RASMATAZ
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 75,988 POSTS
Try cooling system flush and see what happens-also check the oil if its milky
Jul 18, 2011 at 5:08 PM
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CJ MEDEVAC
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 11,000 POSTS
Reckon the tranny cooler inside the radiator sprung a leak?

The Medic
Jul 18, 2011 at 5:29 PM
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RASMATAZ
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 75,988 POSTS
You do not have permission to advertise I suggest you get out-
Jul 18, 2011 at 5:53 PM
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09CROWNVIC
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
Sounds to me like it might be that someone had put in a can of BarsLeak at one time. Not only is it used to seal cooling system leaks, but it is also used as a preventative measure against rust, as well as a water pump lubricant. I've used this in the past per mechanic's recommendations and found it really helps the water pump remain quiet and last a long time. And, yes, it really looks like the nasty brown stuff!
Jul 18, 2011 at 6:15 PM
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