Coolant System Question

[FastGN007]

I am from Baltimore MD but i am in college in Indiana. My heater core went up the other day. I didn't have many tools with me and i have no time with school and soccer so i took the car to the dealership to fix. They are replacing the heater core and they told me that they needed to flush the system. I am worried that if they use chemicals when they flush it that my 158,000 mile motor that is full of deposits will start having bigger problems. My water pump, radiator, and head gaskets are original. I have seen stuff like that and freeze plugs go bad after a complete flush on high mileage motors like that. Anyone ever done that to a high mileage car that has never had it done it before? I tried calling them a few minutes ago but the service advisor doesn't get in until one. I was hoping that they were just going to recycle what was in there. Anyone's opinion is greatly appreciated. I am supposed to drive 12 hours home in 3 weeks so that is why i am worrying so much!!!

Thanks,
Scott

 

[Ormand]

If they use chemicals, you might end up with a leak. Of course, you might end up with a leak either way. After all these years, it's possible that there are "thin" spots, besides the ones in the heater core, and cleaning away the crud and scale may open some pinholes. Get some of those GM "stop leak" pellets- I think the Caddy dealer carries them, I know ATR sells them. If you get a little leak, pop them in. Or, if you want, pop them if for insurance, but my preference is not to use unless needed.

 

[bruce]

Originally posted by FastGN007
I am from Baltimore MD but i am in college in Indiana. My heater core went up the other day. I didn't have many tools with me and i have no time with school and soccer so i took the car to the dealership to fix. They are replacing the heater core and they told me that they needed to flush the system.

Do it when you get home.
It nothing that's going to cause an instant engine failure, if you don't.

Get a routine going for annual and bianual work on your car and get into preventitive maintance.