Coolant leaking from the top of the radiator?!

Darkness · Post by **Darkness** » Thu Apr 28, 2011 9:42 pm

I popped the hood in preparation for replacing the clutch slave cylinder, and noticed that dread-inducing sweet smell of P.E.G.

Fearing a failing water pump, I started looking all over, but all I could find was a little wet patch on top of the radiator. There is a small rectangular panel embedded in the plastic, and coolant was escaping from there. I wiped the plastic off and the moisture came right back. I was able to press the panel in and stop the leak, but when I lifted my hand the leak started again. Only after I pulled the cap and let out the pressure did it stop leaking.

Its not bad - yet. What is this panel? Its no more than a couple inches across, about half an inch wide, with numbers stamped into it. Is it some kind of burst relief or just a piece of crap radiator? Should I plastic weld this thing, or go get another radiator?[/i]

LilSparkPlug · Post by **LilSparkPlug** » Thu Apr 28, 2011 10:00 pm

It's part of the radiator. While I'm sure you could plastic weld it that's probably the onset of many more issues to come with it. Better off buying a new radiator.

OB · Post by OB » Thu Apr 28, 2011 10:03 pm

A new radiator is ideal and the correct repair, but if it's a minor leak and you think you can seal it, no harm done in trying.

Darkness · Post by **Darkness** » Thu Apr 28, 2011 10:46 pm

Figures... well at least the car is paid for. I'm going to try the plastic weld first, and if that doesn't do it, I'll look for a radiator. I see Rockauto has a bunch of different ones, but most of them are for auto cars, probably have a trans cooler in them. Only one comes up for standard trans, and its $77. Can't beat that, even used.

garfield3887 · Post by **garfield3887** » Fri Apr 29, 2011 9:29 am

Even if it has the trans cooler you can still use it. I have an MTX and put one on mine. Just make sure you get the correct one to match your fan.

Post by **occasional demons** » Fri Apr 29, 2011 9:45 am

Also the outlet is different for ATX radiators. You will need the matching lower hose. But a lot of them are cut to fit, so it shouldn't be too big of an issue, other than replacing the current one.