Proper Radiator Cap

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Sep 18, 2013 | 09:58 PM

#16

mjunk1

Fleet Mechanic

Joined: May 2005

Posts: 1,739

Likes: 14

From: Vale, NC

Quote:

Originally Posted by terrylamar

It was leaking badly at the water pump and the water pump cap. When I took the water pump cap off along with the top hose to the radiator, I didn't see a gasket. The rubber ring on top of the thermostat was stuck to the bottom of the cap, there wasn't a bottom rubber ring on the old thermostat. I cleaned everything up and installed a new thermostat. The dealership sold me an O ring as a gasket. I'm not sure where it goes. I put the thermostat in first then put the O ring on top of it, then placed the cap on top of that and tightened it down with the three bolts. It still leaks, but not as bad. I will replace the water pump cap and make sure everything is centered and tighten the bolts down tight. That O ring bothers me!

Couple things...
1. Some pictures would really help if you have the ability to snap a couple and post.
2. The thermostat housing has the three bolts in the triangular shape you are referring to above. When I did mine recently, I cleaned that surface really well, took a ball peen hammer and made sure the flange was flat, a few taps from the outside on each bolt hole area usually helps even it back out. Then I used some grey gasket sealer/maker and made sure I put on enough for it to seal up without too much to get sucked back into the system. Sealed up great and no leaks. The oring does go on top of the tstat but you do need a square one. Mine came from Napa.
3. I have no idea what the water pump cap is but I am not familiar as well with the pre-95 model. a pic would sure help me there.

Hope you get it fixed up. I know how frustrating it is. Others will probably chime in with some better advice than mine!