Nasty looking impeller

[mstover]

My 30 Model A has been overheating and I've decided to take the radiator out to have it inspected. With the rad out, I looked down at the impeller and was mortified at what I saw. I took the water pump out and the impeller is encrusted with what looks like carbon deposits. Is this an indication of a cracked block or could this be something else... grease from an overgreased water pump bearing?

I appreciate the help!
- Mike

[Kurt in NJ]

It is possible that it comes from sitting, and having water in the block, it is caused by a bacterial form of iron ---it won't happen in an engine with antifreeze, I have seen it in well water pumps also ---and in the pine barrons, during the revolutionary war it was used to make iron, sometimes called "bog iron"

grease usually coats the upper tank of the radiator

Post some pictures

[1931 flamingo]

Picture?? While you have the radiator out, now would be a good time to flush the block out. Before flushing, close the (cap) the lower inlet, put gallon or two of white vinegar in it and let it sit for a few days, then flush it good. JMO
Paul in CT

[Bruce of MN]

Here's my crusty impeller.

[columbiA]

As flamingo suggested,you could fill the cooling system with straight white vinigar & could even run it for several days as the hot vinegar should work faster.Then remove top & bottom hoses & reverse flush block & rad.

[JBill]

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That's pretty bad. I think it would be better and easier to replace it than to try to clean it, even with the vinegar method. I don't think you want that crud in any form floating around in your radiator.

[Barry B./ Ma.]

Not much left of that waterpump impeller, I suggest rebuilding it with a new shaft and impeller. You won't get much cooling out of that the way it is. Flush out the radiator and block then add 50/50 antifreeze.

[1931 flamingo]

Guys: The poster of the picture of the impellar is NOT the original poster. FWIW
Paul in CT

[Aerocraft]

It is easy to change the impellor. Looks as if there are at least two that need to be changed. Gar Williams

[mstover]

Dear Bruce in MN. My impeller looked just liked that!

I used a Dremel tool with a couple of different grinder and wire wheel attachments to knock the crud off. It now looks pretty good!

- Mike

[Bruce of MN]

I went the easy way and bought a new shaft & impeller.

Originally Posted by mstover

Dear Bruce in MN. My impeller looked just liked that!

I used a Dremel tool with a couple of different grinder and wire wheel attachments to knock the crud off. It now looks pretty good!

- Mike