Leaking radiator, how long can I push it?

[babyivan]

Originally Posted By: Merkava_4
If done correctly, JB Weld can be very effective at repairing radiator leaks. I've done it.


I respectfully disagree.

Either get it properly fixed (welded) or buy another rad.
I don't have much faith in an epoxy when it comes to things like this.... maybe short term, but certainly not for long term.

 

[stephen9666]

I've successfully used the Bar's Leak tabs in my brother's beater Ford Escort. I thought it was worth a shot and it worked.

I would never try one of the liquid ones, but I've read good things about the tabs and they seem to be the same or very similar to the ones used by GM and Subaru.

The instructions said you can grind them up and pour them in the radiator, which is what I did.

 

[zzyzzx]

Originally Posted By: babyivan
Originally Posted By: DBMaster
...Regardless of biases there is nothing wrong with plastic tank radiators.

Agreed.

Go with Spectra, their stuff is still made in Canada vs. other Chinese made garbage!

I too also debated the plastic/aluminum vs. brass/copper vs. all aluminum.

From reading online, I chose to steer clear of Silla. Quite a bit of people complained of lousy welds and leaks on nearly new rads.


I have heard of people buying them, and then brazing on extra aluminum at the welds before installation. In so far as the plastic side tank variety, I would expect them to leak in the winter after a few years, so I would not bother using one unless my leak gets really bad. It's just a poor design. Perhaps there is another all aluminum aftermarket one available that won't leak.

 

[Merkava_4]

Originally Posted By: babyivan

I respectfully disagree.

Either get it properly fixed (welded) or buy another rad.
I don't have much faith in an epoxy when it comes to things like this.... maybe short term, but certainly not for long term.


You had to of been there. It was a beautiful repair. Picture in your mind of a
miniature swimming pool filled to the top level with JB Weld. It was awesome.