radiator top tank seeps coolant

[kensmith]

I noticed the top of my radiator tank seeps a little coolant. Close to the pressure cap area. Can this be fixed without removing the radiator? Does it have to be welded? Looks like a seam is there.

[manoa matt]

Its a soldered seam. However too much heat will de-solder the delicate cooling fin tubes and create more problems. The main problem is you can not get the joint clean enough for any new solder to stick, and it will weep at the ends of your new solder joint. You end up chasing it in both directions until you re-soldered the entire top cap. Only two options, pour in some stop leak for a temp solution, or have the rad re-cored by a shop.

[kensmith]

Its a soldered seam. However too much heat will de-solder the delicate cooling fin tubes and create more problems. The main problem is you can not get the joint clean enough for any new solder to stick, and it will weep at the ends of your new solder joint. You end up chasing it in both directions until you re-soldered the entire top cap. Only two options, pour in some stop leak for a temp solution, or have the rad re-cored by a shop.

Hi Matt,

Radiator was recently re-cored so that may be the problem. Looks like they spread some kind of sealer over the seam but one small area is worn away at the leak. It seeps just a very little and I might try some JB Weld and see what happens? The area is only about 1/4".

[manoa matt]

If it was recently re-cored I'd take it back and show the shop. I had a 1 year warranty on mine when it was re-cored.

[kensmith]

If it was recently re-cored I'd take it back and show the shop. I had a 1 year warranty on mine when it was re-cored.

Was done by the prior owner and more than a year ago. I went and bought some JB Weld so I will try that. If that doesn't work, I'll take it out and have the seams re-soldered. Did you get my parts list email?

[kensmith]

Well, filed and filled with JB Weld. Will check tomorrow to see if it still seeping.