White stuff near coolant overflow?

[nesbit]

Hi TRS,

I've recently taken notice to this on my overflow cap. Very close to the hole is still wet. Runs fine and temps are normal. Oil looks fine and no smoke in exhaust. Coolant level might be down just slightly in tank.

I can only think it's a weak radiator cap (I've ordered a new one), or the beginning of a head gasket problem. Anyone else else have any suggestions? I assume this isn't normal...

2003 Ranger 4.0 SOHC with 26K original miles.

PS. If anyone can confirm I can drop in the 130A alternator in place of my 95A that would be helpful too. Thanks.

Thanks for any advice.
Chad

 

[nesbit]

Ok The alternator is on. Still not sure what to make of this white stuff though. Anyone else seen this on theirs?

 

[Earl43P]

Looks like coolant evaporating after weeping out of the cap vent.
Couldn't hurt to replace the cap, they're cheap.

Might also flush it and replace the coolant if you don't know its history.
Could be original coolant with that low mileage.
Mix coolant with DISTILLED WATER, $1 at any grocery store.
Distilled water has no minerals, which is what that white deposit looks like to me, from TAP WATER top-offs.

 

[nesbit]

Hi Earl,

Thanks for replying. I am the original owner and it is 'nearly' the original coolant (changed at 4K miles by the dealer in 2004). I've never added to it since then.

I've put on a new radiator cap and wiped off the overflow cap. Now I have to wait and see if the problem comes back.

I'm just curious if anyone else has seen this on their recovery cap. It would give me data as to whether this is normal or if it's a sign of a problem starting.

Thanks,
Chad

 

[Earl43P]

Ten years is awfully old for coolant, Chad.

See post #3. That's all the data you need.
You are due for a new thermostat while you are at it.
Cheap insurance.

 

[nesbit]

Well, I was thinking more along the lines of 20K on 100K mile coolant wan't too bad. But either way I'll change it out.