Replacing the radiator in my 84.

First, is there anything else I should use in the new radiator to help prevent corrosion and rust?

Second, I want to use distilled water when I install the new radiator so I can flush a couple times at home. Then ill use actual coolant.

Is that a good idea^?

 

Edited my post instead of creating a new one. Want to do this swap today

 

50/50 mix of water and coolant is all that's needed. No need to flush a new radiator, it's new. Corrosion is going to happen, regardless - it's the nature of the beast. You can used distilled water, it will help. But one day, sooner or later, you'll be 300 miles from home, and a hose will crap out - you'll end up dumping in tap water anyway.

Look at it this way ... my 1992 had the factory radiator - nothing wrong with it - so it was 15 years old when I poked a hole in it and had to replace it. What else can be so easily changed, lasts 15+ years with tap water, and costs less than $100? I say fill it with tap water and coolant 50/50 and be done.

 

what about the coolant in the engine? Instead of using a hose or "flush" kit I was thinking of just running distilled water and then drain/refill a couple times before putting coolant. I just want to get as much of the crap out as possible.

 

How much coolant would I possibly need to fill a radiator?

 

Buy 2 gallons - won't need it all, but need more than 1 probably.

90% of the engine coolant will drain when you remove lower radiator hose. Can remove coil wire and run the starter for a minute, will force water pump to turn and pull out some more.

 

You've helped me quite a bit on this cite. Thanks