Dodge SRT Viper (2003-2017) Special Anode Radiator Cap

Description

The very best thing you can do for your Viper radiator!

This cap features a sacrificial anode that prevents Electrolytic Metal Erosion (EME) inside the cooling system of your Viper’s engine. The cooling system of a Viper (and many other vehicles) carries a slight positive charge, which can cause erosion of aluminum components that contact the coolant. The sacrificial anode, immersed in the coolant tank, is made of a softer metal—so the EME attacks it instead. This helps extend the life of all metal components in the cooling system. You’ll be surprised to see visible corrosion forming on the anode after just two weeks—proof that it’s protecting your engine instead of letting it corrode.

This item includes one Anode Radiator Cap.

Explanation of Electrolysis

One failure mode associated with dirty coolant is known as electrolysis. Electrolysis occurs when stray negatively charged ions (electrical current) travel through the engine coolant. The electricity seeks the shortest path, and impurities in the coolant often create a low-resistance path for it to travel. This stray electricity often comes from poorly grounded electrical engine accessories or missing ground straps between the engine and transmission, which can cause the coolant to become electrically charged.

When this happens, the current may flow through the radiator, heater hose, or heater core—components that are usually grounded—creating a conductive path between the engine and chassis through the coolant. Electrolysis can destroy an engine quickly. While it’s somewhat normal to have a very small voltage potential in the coolant system, readings above 0.1 volts can trigger chemical reactions between the coolant and the engine’s metal components.

Electrolysis primarily attacks aluminum engine parts, causing pitting and scarring of the surface. This corrosion can lead to coolant leaks, especially around aluminum welds. Aluminum engine blocks and heads are most vulnerable. The thermostat area of a cylinder head often shows visible erosion and material loss caused by electrolysis.

Installing an Anode Radiator Cap greatly reduces this erosion by releasing positively charged ions that attract the negatively charged ions in the coolant. Since the anode metal is softer than aluminum, it erodes first—protecting your engine’s aluminum parts and coolant passages. This process works similarly to electrical discharge machining (EDM), where electrical current removes small bits of metal. However, in this case, the anode safely sacrifices itself to protect the engine.

This is where the Anode Radiator Cap comes in to help!