Rust in radiator and “Sea urchins”

[asetoftools]

So i went to look at a car to buy and there was rust in the overflow tank for the radiator. remove radiator cap and Inside the radiator neck, there were like spiney sea urchin type buildups.

Can i switch out the radiator, run some solution through the engine, a bunch of flushes, and the engine is ok? or is the engine most likely toast. I am leaning towards toast but want an opinion. thanks!

Topic

[Aaron]

You might be able to flush it out but honestly I’d price the car as if the engine was shot. Signs of deferred maintenance like this would call into question for me if the vehicle had been properly maintained otherwise… so I’d want it cheap.

[Lorrin Barth]

Agree

[asetoftools]

K thanks! I figured as much. Shame people don’t take basic care.

[Author]

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