[Freshwaterman]

I have coolant leaking from what would appear to be the radiator itself. But then I noticed it only leaks when it's cold??? Once it heats up it doesn't seem to leak.

Was wondering if it could just be a seal or gasket that once it heats up and expands is fine, but might just need replacing? Also curious as to thoughts on radiator "Stop Leak" products. I noticed several different kinds and brands at Walmart. Anyone have any expirience with these products, and know whether or not they actually work?

Thanks for any input...............KC

 

[speckle-catcher]

Don't bother with any "stop leak" product. They are worthless and should only be used in an emergency.

where on the radiator is it leaking? From the cooling coils, the side tanks, or one of the hose fittings?

 

[Nikonos]

I used a can of radiatior sealant in my old truck to patch up a dribble coming out of the front coils and it ruined the cooling system. I had to flush the entire thing twice so the engine would run at normal temp instead of overheating. Does it work temporarily? Yes, but like speckle-catcher said only use it for a short period of time if it is an emergency.

 

[DISSipator]

Like speckle-catcher asked, where is it leaking from?

If it is on the radiator itself. It could be that it is so small that when the water temp heats up it is just turning to steam and evaporating. But while cold it produces a small leak.

You need to start the car when it has been sitting for a while (cold). And then look to see if you can find the leak.

 

[Freshwaterman]

I'm not sure where it's leaking from, but it seems to be coming from the coils. I could be totally wrong about that though! It doesn't over-heat even with the temps we've been having. It doesn't even run any warmer than it ever did. I just top off my resevoir about every 2-weeks. I know I'll eventually need to take it in to get it checked out, I was mainly curious about the stop-leak stuff. I kinda figured that it wouldn't be the best thing, just wanted opinions about it.

I sure appreciate the responses. I even checked to see what a new radiator for it would run, just in case it has to be replaced. The cost wasn't as bad as I thought it would be. But for now, I'm gonna see if I can limp along on it for another month.

Thanks again. Take it easy.............KC

 

[Bobby]

I used a small can of black pepper to stop leaks in the cars I used to rebuild never had a problem and most of them are still running

 

[Benny]

Bobby's right. Black pepper works every time.

 

[Freshwaterman]

Bobby's right. Black pepper works every time.

Learn something hew everyday..........who'd a thunk it......black pepper for leaky radiator.

Thanks folks.............KC

 

[CHILLOUT]

Coolant Leak

I would'nt use ant stop leak , it will tenporay stop the leak but it will also stop up the radiator core and your heater core. It may be a cracked plastic tank , which will continue to get worse . What kind of a car is it ? I maybe able to save you some money ?

 

[Brew]

I usually avoid the stop leak products also. I did have pretty good luck with Radiator Restore. Made by the folks that make Restore for engines. It uses some type of natural fiber to plug up leaks similar to using pepper.

 

[Bobby]

The good thing about black pepper is that it won't stop up any other place except where the leak is.