Radiator Question

[CCCC]

I have 2 or 3 radiators (for these trucks) of unknown workability - suspect that each has a leak problem - but have little experience with radiator issues and don't know whether it is worth trying to diagnose/repair them.

Is there any rule of thumb here - which problem aspects are feasible to fix and which problems say "junk it"? Any quick home tests - or need I take them the 120 miles to a rad shop?

Any instructions/suggestions will be appreciated.

[Z10]

Here's another alternative. New drop in 2 core radiator for about $225 delivered. I bought mine on ebay. You'll see it in my build thread.
http://www.speedcooling.com/Radiator...r/prod_38.html

[oldschool18]

find out who close to you is paying the most in scrap and get a jump start on a new one.

[LockDoc]

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If you can find something to plug the bottom outlet with you can fill it with water. That will tell you if it has any major problems. It won't tell you what it will do under pressure but if it passes this test any leaks it would have under pressure should be a pretty easy fix. I use a plug like in the link below, available at most hardware and automotive stores.

http://www.summitracing.com/parts/rn...FWJo7AodsggAUA

It is called an expandable plug.

LockDoc

[CCCC]

Thanks LockDoc, for the tip. I have seen those plugs used elsewhere and will get one - at least will enable me to do the no-pressure test for leaks.

I may wind up scrapping these three, but there a lot of trucks around here so I should check them out before i give up on them. A re-seal job I had done down one side of a core quite a few years ago for $40 is still working fine - so there may be hope.

Thanks again.

[LockDoc]

Originally Posted by CCCC

Thanks LockDoc, for the tip. I have seen those plugs used elsewhere and will get one - at least will enable me to do the no-pressure test for leaks.

I may wind up scrapping these three, but there a lot of trucks around here so I should check them out before i give up on them. A re-seal job I had done down one side of a core quite a few years ago for $40 is still working fine - so there may be hope.

Thanks again.

No problem. I save them all, especially the 4 core ones.

LockDoc