96 jimmy multiple problems.help...

[MGAUTHIER]

first:I am having problems with my cooling system. I think it might be multiple problems. First, the radiator, resivor, thermostat, and water pump are all covered in a brown silty sand like substance, the collor of rust. My thoughts: Extended life collant causing problem. How do I fix this?
Second: I am having common signs of water pump problems. coolant is dripping from somewhere in the front end, but I can not be sure it is the pump. The truck is overheating just a little at red lights but back to NORMAL at cruising speeds. It does not drip much, But I am adding atleast a half gallon of collant a day.

Second: when I accelerate I hear a gargling noise come out of the dash,near th passenger side, it sounds like a air hose in a fish tank. What is that all about?

third: my anti lock break light is on and I changed the brakes, everything is clean and correct, but the light is on to stay.

I plan on pulling the entire cooling system apart tommorow and thursday, I am going to change the waterpump and thermostat, allong with flush the radiator and resivor many times. Is there any thing else I might want to do, and is there anything to be carefull about when changing the pump out. any advice will help. do I have to take it is to a shop to fill the enging or can I fill it without getting water pockets in the system?

[MGAUTHIER]

I see there are a few views, but no answerws. Anything will help me at this point. I am hearing bad things about this problem. I need someone to rub my back and tell me I will be ok. Well mabey not that much, just let me know what the problem might be.Thx

[Gooseneck]

The rust colored substance at various places on your engine are just that, rust from your engine cooling system. First thing I would find the leak or leaks, the radiator probably has plastic end tanks which are famous for leaking at the seal between the tank and aluminum core. If this is the case buy a new radiator, don't try to have it repaired. If the water pump is leaking you will more than likely be able to see coolant coming from the "Weep Hole" a small hole in the housing of the pump near the base where it bolts to the engine. The engine over heating when the vehicle is not moving is a sign of and airflow problem or coolant flow problem through the radiator core, again replace or flush the radiator. Once the leaks are repaired flush the engine and cooling system. Refilling your cooling system should not be a problem. Fill the radiator with one gallon antifreeze before start-up, leave the cap off and start the engine. Add one gallon distilled water as cooling system circulates and fills. If more coolant is needed add in a 50/50 mixture, put cap on and let engine reach operating temp. Don't forget to fill the coolant recovery tank to proper level. Recheck radiator and recovery level after engine has cooled. The noise you're hearing under the dash is the heater core, probably from air in the cooling system. Your anti-lock warning light shows a failure with the anti-lock system only. This should not effect normal braking but you might want to have it checked by a qualified mechanic.