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Old 11-01-2021, 07:50 AM   #1
spinelll
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Default Indication of a radiator leak???

Is the attached picture an indication of a leak?
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Old 11-01-2021, 07:57 AM   #2
aermotor
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Default Re: Indication of a radiator leak???

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Originally Posted by spinelll View Post
Is the attached picture an indication of a leak?
Don't think so, looks like some slightly bent fins. A leak will flow all the way to the bottom when static. Blow off the area real good and see if wetness returns.

John

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Old 11-01-2021, 08:25 AM   #3
nkaminar
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Default Re: Indication of a radiator leak???

The blue green color is typical of copper oxide, like rust on iron. It is usually caused by water, especially acidic water. If you have a leak it is a small one. You may be able to stop the leak with one of the radiator stop leak products.

Do you have an overheating issue? Are you loosing coolant? Are you running straight water or antifreeze with the water? How old is the radiator? Is this a recent issue?
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Old 11-01-2021, 12:32 PM   #4
spinelll
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Default Re: Indication of a radiator leak???

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Originally Posted by nkaminar View Post
The blue green color is typical of copper oxide, like rust on iron. It is usually caused by water, especially acidic water. If you have a leak it is a small one. You may be able to stop the leak with one of the radiator stop leak products.

Do you have an overheating issue? Are you loosing coolant? Are you running straight water or antifreeze with the water? How old is the radiator? Is this a recent issue?

I don't overheat but I always seem to lose some thru the overflow whenever I stop, regardless of the cold level.

Running 50/50.
Not sure age of radiator.
I just noticed the discoloration.
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Old 11-01-2021, 01:30 PM   #5
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Default Re: Indication of a radiator leak???

You might try AlumAseal. It is a powder so it should not clog the tubes. Meanwhile, save up for a new radiator.
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Old 11-02-2021, 11:36 AM   #6
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Default Re: Indication of a radiator leak???

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I used K-seal with good results. It is copper based which gives it a good heat transfer and it does not clog the system. It is designed to stay in the system.
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Old 11-03-2021, 07:23 PM   #7
Glenn Thoreson
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Default Re: Indication of a radiator leak???

Wash the corrosion off with straight vinegar and a soft scrub brush. It would likely show more easily if it's a leak. Coolant loss out the overflow tube is pretty normal if the radiator is filled more than it likes. Usually it will find it's happy place and not do it if not overheated. My preference for these radiator problems is to take it to a radiator shop and have it cleaned, checked for leaks and repaired rather than buy a new and expensive one. A properly repaired one is just as good.
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