radiator problem
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Joined: Oct 2013
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From: psl florida
radiator problem
The real problem is cash flow at the moment. The radiator is developing a leak at the top driver side between the aluminum core and the end cap, and I don't have the cash to buy a new one.
My question, is there a temp fix for this (stop leak fluid, JB Weld etc....). I am afraid of the stop leak fluid never tried that stuff before, not sure what it does to the engine long term.
Truck is an 05' with 342,000 miles and runs great.
Thanks for any help you guys could give me!
My question, is there a temp fix for this (stop leak fluid, JB Weld etc....). I am afraid of the stop leak fluid never tried that stuff before, not sure what it does to the engine long term.
Truck is an 05' with 342,000 miles and runs great.
Thanks for any help you guys could give me!
DTR's Night Watchman & Poet Laureate
Joined: Jun 2004
Posts: 2,156
Likes: 1
From: Lyndon KS
Not sure what to tell ya...
Id stay away from the stop-leak and others that you pour into the radiator. They're basically a fluid with brass or aluminum filings in it, the idea being that the filings will get sucked into the leak and block it.. problem is, they also tend to block passageways, heater cores, t-stats...would probably cost you more in the long run that the new rad would..
You might look at sealing it with one of the two-part epoxies you can pick up at most parts stores... I have no real idea if that would work, but from what you are describing, its what i might try if I were in your spot.
Id stay away from the stop-leak and others that you pour into the radiator. They're basically a fluid with brass or aluminum filings in it, the idea being that the filings will get sucked into the leak and block it.. problem is, they also tend to block passageways, heater cores, t-stats...would probably cost you more in the long run that the new rad would..
You might look at sealing it with one of the two-part epoxies you can pick up at most parts stores... I have no real idea if that would work, but from what you are describing, its what i might try if I were in your spot.
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Joined: Oct 2006
Posts: 503
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From: Kennewick, WA
Here's another idea, if you can make a loop around the radiator (side to side or top to bottom) and cover the leaking area, you might be able to use that new flexible silicone tape. It's suppose to withstand high temperatures. Just a thought.
Good luck and if you find a solution let us know.
Good luck and if you find a solution let us know.
Registered User
Joined: Mar 2008
Posts: 139
Likes: 3
From: Huntington West Virginia
I used stop leak several years ago in my tow vehicle and it corrected my small leak and did not cause any other issues with heat or cooling..
Also, check around in your area for a radiator shop. A good shop can put in a new seal where the aluminum meets the end cap and the cost is not bad. The only bad part is you have to remove your radiator and this is not too hard on a truck. This seal is nothing but a large O-ring probably 1/4 in in diameter. The plastic end cap just crimps to the aluminum core and is easily removed to replace the seal.
Just about 3 years ago I had a shop replace this o ring on my son's F150 and it totally corrected the problem.
Also, check around in your area for a radiator shop. A good shop can put in a new seal where the aluminum meets the end cap and the cost is not bad. The only bad part is you have to remove your radiator and this is not too hard on a truck. This seal is nothing but a large O-ring probably 1/4 in in diameter. The plastic end cap just crimps to the aluminum core and is easily removed to replace the seal.
Just about 3 years ago I had a shop replace this o ring on my son's F150 and it totally corrected the problem.
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