radiators with plastic tanks
Posted: Wed Dec 14, 2005 11:29 am
hey all
Just a note of warning. I'm just replacing my radiator in the 80 as it is seeping coolant around the top tank.(plastic) Apparently, if you use an overconcerntrated coolant, or incorrect coolant, or leave it past due date(most are around 1 year), the tank o-ring will start to degrade and coolant can leak.
Unfortunately, I didn't find this out till the guy did the cleanout, replaced the o-ring, pressure tested it. Which is when it leaked. He suggested changing the gripper plate but couldn't guarantee that would fix it either. And so I had to pay for his effort, not a big deal ($70).... anyways.. end of the day I've bought a new radiator with the metal tanks through repco, and this will last for many years.
So, before you consider getting your radiator cleaned etc, get an idea of cost and possibility of fixing the thing, how long will it last etc... and then consider the complete replacement cost. Oh and check your coolant condition at least yearly!!!
I've put this in the toyota section as its what I have, but it would apply to any car with radiators that have plastic tanks.
my 2 cents... actually maybe its closer to 5 cents...
Just a note of warning. I'm just replacing my radiator in the 80 as it is seeping coolant around the top tank.(plastic) Apparently, if you use an overconcerntrated coolant, or incorrect coolant, or leave it past due date(most are around 1 year), the tank o-ring will start to degrade and coolant can leak.
Unfortunately, I didn't find this out till the guy did the cleanout, replaced the o-ring, pressure tested it. Which is when it leaked. He suggested changing the gripper plate but couldn't guarantee that would fix it either. And so I had to pay for his effort, not a big deal ($70).... anyways.. end of the day I've bought a new radiator with the metal tanks through repco, and this will last for many years.
So, before you consider getting your radiator cleaned etc, get an idea of cost and possibility of fixing the thing, how long will it last etc... and then consider the complete replacement cost. Oh and check your coolant condition at least yearly!!!
I've put this in the toyota section as its what I have, but it would apply to any car with radiators that have plastic tanks.
my 2 cents... actually maybe its closer to 5 cents...