Quote:
Originally Posted by Aerocraft
If you look carefully at original Model A radiators, you will see that mechanical fasteners (small rivets) were used to secure and strengthen the attachment of the neck and both inlet and outlets. I have often wondered why the reproduction radiator manufacturers don't use rivets. I have seen some filler necks on repo radiators just "butt" soldered without any flange on the neck. That is just a leak waiting to happen. Gar Williams
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Inlets are not butt soldered.
The solder joint used on an inlet to tank connection is commonly referred to as a lap joint. Rivets
were used in 1928 and 1929 and they
can be used again. A solder joint failure two years after construction may be caused by the same things that caused it in 1928; vibration and thermal cycling. Using rivets may not resolve that issue. Naturally, we will review the strength of this joint with its present construction and, if it is warranted, make a change to the product.
Butt solder joint would be done with silver solder which results in a joint stronger than the metals being joined.
As always, if anyone wants a modification to the product (including the addition of rivets) they need only call us directly and make the request. We make custom radiators every day.