cracked radiator

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Feb 8, 2013 | 06:49 PM

Bill97

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Joined: Apr 2011

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From: Cary, NC

cracked radiator

Hi Team,

The top of my radiator cracked tonight. Wondering if there is anything recommended, that may have a longer shelf life, or others have had good luck with.

Thanks for the input. Sure hope she stops taking my money. Have sunk almost 4 thousand into her the past few months. Drive shaft, rear yolk, bent tension bar, which also warped the frame where it connected - once the frame was bent it's likely what caused the drive shaft to go out of whack. (guessing from the previous owner, as I've never taken it off roading or hit anything) Water pump, oil gaskets, gear box, steering column had to be rebuilt, and a few other things I can't remember off hand! Now the radiator.

Everyone tells me to get ride of it, but I know she will love me back someday.

Feb 8, 2013 | 07:00 PM

Action4478

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Joined: Aug 2006

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Depending on the location of the crack , it may be able to be welded ...

This is another option , it works great http://www.rapid-fix.com/HOME.html

Feb 8, 2013 | 08:04 PM

Bill97

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Joined: Apr 2011

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From: Cary, NC

It's right on top, and in plain sight. Runs about half the length right in the middle. I was going to ask if JB Weld or some other solution would work, but didn't want to run the risk of looking foolish, haha...Thanks for the help, welding could be an option.

Feb 8, 2013 | 08:34 PM

asemastermech

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Joined: Dec 2004

Posts: 214

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From: Detroit Metro

Answer

Quote:

Originally Posted by Bill97

For best results you need 70° F ambient temperature for at least one hour + allow the full curing time.

I use the smallest possible drill, on each end of the crack, this is called stop drilling.
Clean the surface with brake clean.
Rough the surface with 80 grit sand paper.
Blow it off with a can of dry air (computer store).
Then use one of these products.

.

Feb 8, 2013 | 11:24 PM

Talyn

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Joined: Oct 2003

Posts: 17,791

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From: Ashland City, TN

Quote:

Originally Posted by Action4478

Depending on the location of the crack , it may be able to be welded ...

This is another option , it works great HOME

Rick, I forgot which year your truck is.

After 95, they had plastic or aluminum end caps IIRC.

The 87-early95's had brass caps.

Just swap in a replacement radiator. It's not really common for the problem your stating that I have read.

Feb 9, 2013 | 10:22 AM

Bill97

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Joined: Apr 2011

Posts: 292

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From: Cary, NC

yeah looking like I'll need a replacement. Seeing it in the daylight paints a different picture than last night. Was hoping to save some fuel money on a less expensive fix. Thanks for the suggestions.