Need to test and repair a radiator. How?
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Elder User
Joined: Sep 2001
Posts: 551
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From: USA
Need to test and repair a radiator. How?
I have a radiator that came with my new parts truck and I'm not sure what shape it's in. My plan was to put some water in it, then add some compressed air and see what squirts out. Once I find and mark the holes, I've been told you can solder them to repair them.
What kind of solder do I need and how do I go about this? Also, is there a better way to test it than I suggested above?
I don't need this to be a "top-of-the-line" repair since my good truck's radiator is fine and the repaired parts radiator will only be used if I decide to turn this parts truck into a mud bogger of some kind.
What kind of solder do I need and how do I go about this? Also, is there a better way to test it than I suggested above?
I don't need this to be a "top-of-the-line" repair since my good truck's radiator is fine and the repaired parts radiator will only be used if I decide to turn this parts truck into a mud bogger of some kind.
Post Fiend
Joined: Feb 2003
Posts: 6,940
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From: Eastern WA
Need to test and repair a radiator. How?
I've had good luck using acid core solder with plenty of flux, and I really like seeing a decent % of lead in it too. BTW, don't overpressurize that radiator with the compressed air.
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Elder User
Joined: Sep 2001
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From: USA
Need to test and repair a radiator. How?
So I can just clean it and solder right on the outside of the hole and that will hold fine? I thought that was all I needed to do but I wasn't sure.
Senior User
Joined: Jun 2002
Posts: 333
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From: Carlsbad TX
Need to test and repair a radiator. How?
best sign is a water stain where a leak was. Mark that area before you clean anything. It's best if you can sand the area, or spot also so you have a good clean bare metal surface for solder to bond to. Hope this helps.
Chuck
Chuck
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Joined: Apr 2001
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Need to test and repair a radiator. How?
One of those inexpensive kid's semi-rigid, wading pools you find at Wal-Mart, etc, makes a good test bed for checking your radiator. Fill the pool far enough to submerge the radiator and just use compressed air only. The air will show up slow leaks better than using water. Also good for parts cleaning or just give to the neighborhood kids when finished.
