How To Repair A Radiator?

Answer 1

Sometimes money can be tight and a car repair can come at a bad time. So if the funds are low in your wallet and the fluid is low in you radiator, you can temporarily fix it yourself if the leak isn’t severe. If the leak is minor you can fix it completely and easily from the comfort of your own yard.

Step 1. Find where the leak is. It may not even be your radiator. It could be a hose that needs to be replaced. Just check under the hood while the car is running. You should be able to spot a leaking hose if that is the case.

Step 2. Check radiator cap for any leaks around it. The fix could be as simple as replacing a cap or gasket.

Step 3. Fix the leak by patching the outside. If the seam is where the leak is, use a metal patching product. Its similar to a putty like material. Just place the product on the seam and this will temporarily fix the radiator. It is recommended that you like it set for a 24 hour period so it will harden.

Step 4. In addition to the putty, use a stop leak product. This usually mixes with antifreeze and allows for an easy fix. Just follow the directions on the bottle.

Step 5. If you use the stop leak product that doesn’t need to be mixed with antifreeze, drain your radiator. Flush it out with water and then add the stop leak product. Drive it for about 75+ miles so it can work. Then drain it again and this time allow it time to fully dry. Refill with antifreeze. Check to make sure the leak is completely sealed. You should have no issues after you have completed this step.

Step 6. If your leak comes from the overfill tank then the repair is quite simple. Glue where the leak originated at, whether it is a whole or crack. Make sure you use a product that is made specifically for plastic. If you don’t it could lead to the patching not holding. Epoxy is a good product to use for this type of repair.