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Radiator leaking BIG time!!!!

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Old Nov 12, 2005 | 11:01 PM
  #1  
armybronco2's Avatar
armybronco2
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From: Fort Carson, CO
Exclamation Radiator leaking BIG time!!!!

Here's my problem...I started running hot Thursday coming back from Tenn. deer hunting trip...raised the hood and saw coolant running down the SIDE of my rad. I tried to put coolant in but would put so much in then would see coolant start to run again but temp would drop so I would push on. To clarify...saw coolant coming from bottom of the side on the cap side. I saw no coolant anywhere else. I am thinking that maybe there is a crack in that plastic side and can fix it with JB Weld. Someone let me know if I am getting ready to screw something up. I havent driven my B2 since I got home but I would like to hear from you all before I take it to a radiator shop and part with big bucks!!!

ANY info will be greatly appreciated!!!!
 
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Old Nov 13, 2005 | 12:49 AM
  #2  
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texans
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From: Abilene, Texas
If it is the side cap that you are talking about. A radiator shop should be able to replace it. GL
 
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Old Nov 13, 2005 | 07:09 AM
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Before spending money on a radiator repair, I would seriously invest money in a new 4.0 radiator. It's bigger and keeps the 2.9 much cooler. I have done this a few years ago and have been very satified with it's cooling abillities. You can idle in traffic with the a/c on and the temp gauge is still on the lower quarter. Where as the 2.9 always seemed to go to the upper quarter. Just my opinion.
 
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Old Nov 13, 2005 | 12:25 PM
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armybronco2
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From: Fort Carson, CO
Thanks guys...
Looking at it this morning/afternoon, it looks like there might be a small hole in the fill tank so I am draining it now and will take the radiator out and see if I can plug it. I will let you know the outcome.
And yes wolffpax...I am thinking of upgrading to a better radiator. Any suggestions on where I can get one without breaking the bank?
 
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Old Nov 16, 2005 | 06:59 PM
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Your local auto parts store. I got mine for $125.
 
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Old Nov 16, 2005 | 08:02 PM
  #6  
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frankenbroncoII
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From: north carolina
you didnt say what year bII you had or what power plant you had but if you got a 2.9L the 4.o rad will swap right in, if you had a the 2.8 you will have to cut the pegs off the bottom of it. also if you get a manuel version they are usually 10 bucks cheaper than auto and its (usually) the same stinking rad. just where the auto trans lines hook up is capped off.
 
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Old Nov 17, 2005 | 08:37 PM
  #7  
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armybronco2
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wolfpaxx and frankenbroncoII,
Just to let you guys(and everyone else!) know....took the radiator off and found that the plastic tank and aluminum side had seperated to the point that I could see the rubber seal!It had seperated in the middle and the top and bottom was still intact. I took you advice and got a new 4.0 radiator and it slid right into to same spot,,,same hook ups and all! You're right about the cooling to...it has yet to go above the 'R' on my guage and goes back down to 'N' when I take off from a stop. If I turn on my electric fan (which I usually do if I am in stop and go traffic) the needle doesn't leave the 'N'. Needless to say I am very happy with the new radiator and I appreciate all your comments and advice.

Thanks
Armybronco2
 
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Old Nov 18, 2005 | 10:22 AM
  #8  
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frankenbroncoII
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From: north carolina
glad to hear that your problem is no longer a problem.
 
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Old Nov 20, 2005 | 02:28 PM
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speaking of a 4.0L radiator what vehicle and year do you ask for? a 92 explorer has a 4.0 1 row 18" X 18 3/8" X 1" core, is that a good rep for 89 2.9L?
 
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Old Nov 20, 2005 | 07:29 PM
  #10  
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From: Fort Carson, CO
tchile,
I ordered the radiator for 1991 ford explorer. it was 18" x 18" x 2 1/4" and like I said it was a direct fit..
 
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Old Nov 20, 2005 | 10:13 PM
  #11  
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Mine was for a 93 Ford explorer. I think up to 94 with fit without using modding to make it fit. Just keep in mind this sucker takes almost twice as much coolant to fill it. So purchase extra coolant....
tchile, the 92 will fit perfect!
 
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