Just before my trackday tomorrow, I noticed a small leak in my radiator Has anyone attempted a repair? Any shop recommendations?

Need this to be reliable, and not sure what the consensus are on repairs.

 

That sucks. What did you end up doing? I wouldn't track my car if I had any doubts about the reliability of my cooling system.

 

Well, I found a shop pankeysradiator.com They have great reviews and were recommended by other customers. I removed my radiator and will drop it off Monday for repair.

Not going to trackday tomorrow

 

You can borrow mine if you want. My car is torn apart for now since I have to go to the state ref.

 

what was the cost if you don't mind me asking...

A brand new Koyo rad can be had for $250 to $299. Maybe cheaper.

 

Yep. The labor cost to repair your old radiator may come close to the cost of a new one. My Dad had a 50% rule which I also subscribe to. If the repair is 50% or more of a new OEM part buy the new part. Your old radiator will always be a repaired radiator.

The radiator just lifts out after removing the two hoses and a couple of electrical connections. Remove the two top brackets and lift out. All the work then is done on the bench. Either repair or swapping the sensors and fans. Swap looks easy and is done with hand tools. Repair will have man hours and probably special tools required.

-- Chuck

 

Appreciate for the offer. I'll just stand down for now.

I'm running a 2-pass radiator which was about $600. I expect the repair to be <$100 - I'll find out tomorrow when I drop it off.

The Koyo and other like radiators did not cut it for me. I'm boosted and would hit 230 water temps on the track.

 

Since we are talking about radiators here, any idea why the cooling fan & AC fan would not be running? I've checked the fuse and it's still good.

Just swapped out my radiator today to replace another OEM one but now my fans aren't running. All 3 connectors have been securely plugged in and clicked. Engine was warmed up and heater on max with fans on high, no response from the fans and it was just blowing cool air.

Any help is appreciated, thanks.

P.S. Sorry for hi jacking your thread OP!

 

Check your relay, verify voltage trigger at relay coil input and verify operation of temp fan switch. Temp switch is the easiest to check for, simply bypass it and see if fans turn on.

Edit: if you're blowing cool air when engine is fully warmed you have air in the system. Fix that first before chasing a fan issue, as I've seen air pockets prevent the fan from turning on (or turning on very late).

 

I'm almost certain there is air in the system. I've tried Billman's coolant bleed technique at least 10 times, no luck on getting all the air out. I've tried warming up the engine with the radiator cap off, then going for a 5 min drive. Drives fine, no overheat but no heater either.

I've been trying to get the air out of the system the whole day so if anyone has any idea, please chime in.