Copper particles in the Coolant

[ZGR]

Just had a search through the threads but could not find anything. I have noticed copper coloured particles in the radiator coolant, I noticed them collected on the header tank cap... Anyone know what this might be or if it is normal?

Cheers in advance...

ZGR

[griffter]

How long have you had the car?
Could a previous owner have added a 'stop leak' coolant additive containing copper particles?

[That Daddy]

That could be a product called K seal,that stuff as copper colored particles and is a good get you outta trouble leak stopper,i wouldent want it in there long term i would rather fix the coolant loss.I would tend to agree with the last post.

Edited by That Daddy on Monday 1st September 16:28

[GreenV8S]

Or maybe somebody has used some coppaslip anti-seize compound somewhere? Perhaps in an attempt to stop the pressure cap from gluing itself to the tank?

[Boosted LS1]

Seems like it could it be a rusting radiator?

[Columbo]

Boosted LS1 said:

Seems like it could it be a rusting radiator?

I would agree does sound like a rusty rad

[K4TRV]

Rusting radiator - unless someone changed it for a steel version, when did physics change to allow Copper to rust ?

Drain, refill with 50:50 water antifreeze and start again.

If coolent not changed for many years, rust starts front the engine liners etc, not the rad !!

[That Daddy]

Its a dry liner block is it not? it wont be the rad either.

[2Munkys]

ZGR said:

Just had a search through the threads but could not find anything. I have noticed copper coloured particles in the radiator coolant, I noticed them collected on the header tank cap... Anyone know what this might be or if it is normal?

Cheers in advance...

ZGR

How big are the particles? Could they be wear deposits from something phosphour bronze? can't think what that might be within the curcuit.

I guess if its something metallic you're gonna find the same deposits in the lower regions of the system. If you're witnessing deposits in the cap you'll find similar at the bottom of the tank. And I'd guess you'd still be able to smear Copaslip between your fingers.

How are the temps? Any abnormal sounds from the motor or ancilliaries?

[That Daddy]

I still think its had K seal popped in it,how long you owned the car ZGR?

Edited by That Daddy on Tuesday 2nd September 09:41

[siobe]

K Seal I'd say as well. My daily drive Beemer was loosing coolant for ages, with no apparent side effects except having to buy coolant with the weekly shopping. Eventually some mayo appeared on the filler cap. I now have the copper particles in the coolant and no more mayo. Just changed the oil and filter after the leak stopped. The leak was into no.6 cylinder, you could see by looking at the spark plug. I don't know how long it might last, but the bottle says it is a permanent fix. Fingers crossed.

Edited by siobe on Tuesday 2nd September 16:28

[That Daddy]

siobe said:

K Seal I'd say as well. My daily drive Beemer was loosing coolant for ages, with no apparent side effects except having to buy coolant with the weekly shopping. Eventually some mayo appeared on the filler cap. I now have the copper particles in the coolant and no more mayo. Just changed the oil and filter after the leak stopped. The leak was into no.6 cylinder, you could see by looking at the spark plug. I don't know how long it might last, but the bottle says it is a permanent fix. Fingers crossed.

Edited by siobe on Tuesday 2nd September 16:28

I have witnessed it cure some real gushers and lasted.