Radiator is a component of the car’s cooling system. It is located behind the bumper for optimum heat removal when the car is cruising. There is a fan behind the radiator which is connected to a thermostat. When temperature exceeds allowable level, the thermostat will activate the fan, thus improving the heat removal capacity. Water pump will circulate coolant in and around the engine internals which absorbs excess heat and then dispersing it through the fins.
Without a functional cooling system, the engine may experience overheating issues which will damage the engine. If that happens, repair will be very costly. By following this DIY on how to fix a radiator leak, it will save u a lot of money in the long run.
First, look for any signs of coolant leakage on the ground. It is best to check after parking your car overnight at your porch. To reconfirm, fill up your radiator to the brim and then leave overnight. Check the water level next morning. Any significant decrease of water level is a clear indication that your radiator is busted.
Use a car jack to bring up your car’s front end. Leave it on the jack stand and secure the hind wheel. Remove all radiator hoses, bolts and nuts which hold the radiator in place.
Then, inspect the external radiator body visually. Look for any indication of cracks, corrosion or any form of discoloration which may be significant visually. Else, use a radiator repair kit to fill in air into the radiator and then submerge the radiator completely into the water. Observe for any air bubble which may emerge from cracks.
Once the exact crack location has been identified, buy a stop leak additive to cure minute crack. Fill the additive into radiator and top up with distilled water only. Normal tap water contains minerals and contaminant which causes internal corrosion leading to radiator failure.
If the crack is severe, welding work is required to patch the crack. Determine the exact material before contemplating on the welding specifications and electrodes types to ensure perfect weld.
By following the given tips, I am sure you will appreciate your car better and save up labor cost.