Radiator and Clamps
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Tuned
Joined: Nov 2006
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Radiator and Clamps
Hey guys.
I have a 94 4.0L, A4LD with A/C, 263,000 miles. I had a leaking radiator, which I replaced a few weeks ago. I also replaced the hoses, thermostat, clamps and belt.
Lately, we have had record cold weather here in NE. When the truck is cold, it drips coolant from the area around the lower hose connection on the radiator. This seems to stop when the truck is warmed up. I am going to pressure test the radiator this weekend to confirm the source of the leak.
My question is: Has anyone seen this happen before? I am using screw-type hose clamps, not the original spring-type. A friend has a theory that when it's really cold, the parts contract, causing this leak. Does that make any sense? Should I switch back to the spring-type clamps? Are they a dealer-only item?
I'm really aggravated by this problem, I've done lots of radiators on various vehicles over the years, have always used new hoses and screw-clamps. I've never seen this before.
Mike
I have a 94 4.0L, A4LD with A/C, 263,000 miles. I had a leaking radiator, which I replaced a few weeks ago. I also replaced the hoses, thermostat, clamps and belt.
Lately, we have had record cold weather here in NE. When the truck is cold, it drips coolant from the area around the lower hose connection on the radiator. This seems to stop when the truck is warmed up. I am going to pressure test the radiator this weekend to confirm the source of the leak.
My question is: Has anyone seen this happen before? I am using screw-type hose clamps, not the original spring-type. A friend has a theory that when it's really cold, the parts contract, causing this leak. Does that make any sense? Should I switch back to the spring-type clamps? Are they a dealer-only item?
I'm really aggravated by this problem, I've done lots of radiators on various vehicles over the years, have always used new hoses and screw-clamps. I've never seen this before.
Mike
Cargo Master
Joined: Aug 2003
Posts: 3,263
Likes: 92
From: BC Canada
I used RED Hi Temp, same as i used for the Intake manifold. Just a very light smear on the inside of the hose end.
I think what happens is the hose loses its cushion after beinig heated and cooled, and the inlet/outlet nipples on the rad have mold imperfections. The OEM spring clips adjusted for this but the gear clamp is stationary causing the fluids to seep.
I think what happens is the hose loses its cushion after beinig heated and cooled, and the inlet/outlet nipples on the rad have mold imperfections. The OEM spring clips adjusted for this but the gear clamp is stationary causing the fluids to seep.
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Tuned
Joined: Nov 2006
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When I think of red, I think of RTV gasket material (in a tube). Is that what you're talking about?
Your explanation sounds logical. So, are you saying that the spring clamps are preferred but not critical?
Mike
Your explanation sounds logical. So, are you saying that the spring clamps are preferred but not critical?
Mike
Cargo Master
Joined: Aug 2003
Posts: 3,263
Likes: 92
From: BC Canada
Originally Posted by mikeinri
When I think of red, I think of RTV gasket material (in a tube). Is that what you're talking about?
Originally Posted by mikeinri
Your explanation sounds logical. So, are you saying that the spring clamps are preferred but not critical?
Mike
Mike
N.B. torqueinig to much might deform the plastic nipples causing more seepage.
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