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Unread 07-28-2010, 07:31 PM   #1
RockJeepTJ
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Zinc Anode in Radiator (thoughts/opinions)

Ran across Flex-A-Lite's new Zinc Anode (Flex-a-lite 32060 - Flex-a-lite Zinc Anode 1/4"NPT - Quadratec) and was wondering what the opinions were on this subject.

I run a stock radiator in my 2000 TJ Sport (4.0)


Thanks

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Unread 05-09-2013, 10:10 PM   #2
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Bump!!

I'm about to replace my water pump and saw this guy, do they work at all and is it worth it???????
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Unread 05-09-2013, 11:38 PM   #3
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Quote:
Originally Posted by RockJeepTJ View Post
Ran across Flex-A-Lite's new Zinc Anode (Flex-a-lite 32060 - Flex-a-lite Zinc Anode 1/4"NPT - Quadratec) and was wondering what the opinions were on this subject.

I run a stock radiator in my 2000 TJ Sport (4.0)


Thanks
It's called a "sacrificial anode," and it works quite well. The idea is used extensively in marine applications (especially saltwater marine,) and most home water heaters made in the last ten years or so have removable/replaceable zinc anodes - check 'em once a year, replace PRN (depending on local water quality, they're good for 3-7 years, usually.)

Why anodes? Because the zinc anodes will corrode faster than the weld metal for the chimney and tank seals, extending the life of the heater tank!

I have no trouble with the idea. I've been kicking around ideas to fit them into RENIX as well, once I get on with the refit of my 88.
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Unread 05-10-2013, 01:35 PM   #4
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Quote:
Originally Posted by RockJeepTJ View Post
Ran across Flex-A-Lite's new Zinc Anode (Flex-a-lite 32060 - Flex-a-lite Zinc Anode 1/4"NPT - Quadratec) and was wondering what the opinions were on this subject.

I run a stock radiator in my 2000 TJ Sport (4.0)


Thanks
Ive only ever seen them in massive OTR and heavy equipment radiators. I dont know why I never thought to look into one for my personal vehicle. They work extremely well in my experience.
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Unread 05-10-2013, 05:50 PM   #5
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My thought / opinion is to just flush you coolant system every 2-3 years and replace with a 50/50 mix of Zerex G05 and Distilled water and you shouldn't have any problems.
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Unread 05-10-2013, 06:05 PM   #6
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My thought / opinion is to just flush you coolant system every 2-3 years and replace with a 50/50 mix of Zerex G05 and Distilled water and you shouldn't have any problems.
^this

I'm sure a zinc anode can't hurt, but coolant (anti-freeze) is loaded with corrosion inhibitors to begin with, so as long as you change it when you're supposed to an anode shouldn't be necessary, and likely won't make much of a difference.
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Unread 05-10-2013, 06:59 PM   #7
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Originally Posted by dmill89 View Post
^this

I'm sure a zinc anode can't hurt, but coolant (anti-freeze) is loaded with corrosion inhibitors to begin with, so as long as you change it when you're supposed to an anode shouldn't be necessary, and likely won't make much of a difference.
So the anode lasts forever.

Consider it cheap insurance - best kind. Once a year, you pull the anode and check it for erosion, just keep another one in your toolbox for if & when.
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Unread 05-11-2013, 04:48 AM   #8
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So the anode lasts forever.

Consider it cheap insurance - best kind. Once a year, you pull the anode and check it for erosion, just keep another one in your toolbox for if & when.
No. They dont last forever. As stated before, they are sacrificial. They will need to be on an inspection schedule. Specific applications will dictate how often it needs to be changed.
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