Radiator leak from top?

[Dave03S]

I just "fixed" this leak with RTV and some teflon thread wrap. So far it is leak free.

I had a slow leak and interestingly noted this... I applied RTV (high heat red) sealant by using the small end of a chopstick down the hole where the screw came out. I noticed while applying a small dab that when I pushed down I could hear a small "psssst" As if pressure were releasing. This was while there was still pressure in the system, not fully cold. If just a bit of pressure would make this puncture leak and it makes no leaking sound otherwise it must have been pretty small.

I could care less about having a dab of it land in my radiator tank as I already know I'll be needing a new one anyway. I'm happy to stop the leaking until I get that done.

This clearly happened (long screw in short hole) when my trusted shop was working on it. Put the wrong screw in. The owner told me I now had a leak but did not tell my why. Only that it was a "stupid" leak and would not expand or blow out.

After reading on the enterwebs I find out that his guy probably did this.

Should I call them out on it? And what should I expect if I do?

Otherwise I have no problems with this shop and have been a loyal happy customer.

 

[Henry14]

i have the same damn issue..i think i am just going to replace the radiator.. has anyone used the Rockauto Nissens radiator is it any good? Or is there another alternative part number that i can just use from a local parts store?

 

[JFD]

the real fix is a new radiator. stop being a cheap ass and buy a new one :rofl:

I know that but it's not like I have next day delivery. Shipping, customs, etc.

 

[ukoffroad]

Why anyone would fix a leaking radiator in a pressurized system like this is behind me unless it it a trail repair.

 

[mike97d1]

Assuming it is barley leaking like mine was: Drain coolant till it is low enough to not be leaking out of the hole, Clean well with brake clean, put 3m 5200 marine sealant on screw, screw back in, give plenty of time for sealant to cure, fill system and proceed as usual

 

[davidb516]

I think Im having the same issue - attached is a picture of whats happening with my vehicle - this is the top of the radiator on the driver side. Possibly the same issue...

Any help appreciated

 

[Jagfixer]

Plastic is separating from aluminum. Some shops will say not fixable. Find a decent old time shop and ask. Mine can refurbish but will not guarantee. New would be best, watch the prices, look around before plunging. I had a replacement and then had to order more parts to get hoses to fit.

 

[davidb516]

Thank you for the response. I will bring it in to my local shop and see what they say - helpful to go in with a some knowledge as most mechanics near me don't like to touch rovers.

 

[ubuntu]

Check that thin plastic radiator line, they get real brittle and break, it should be ready to give up about now.

 

[Plain2000DII]

Update, been 3 years since my post here, fix is still good. Disco has other issues but the radiator fix is hanging tough.