Downside of anal maintenance

[Dansan]

I just replaced the radiator and water pump on my 1995 LC. I used the OEM Toyota 93-94, 3 row brass and copper. With less than 50 miles, my new radiator is leaking from somewhere near the bottom, soaking the gasket with coolant.

My original radiator was at 125K and 11 years so I thought it prudent to replace. Ironically, my original radiator looks free of sludge or blockage.

Hopefully, CDan can ship me another when he gets back - I really don't want to put the old working radiator back in.

 

[Romer]

You sure its the radiator and not a loose hookup?

 

[Dansan]

You sure its the radiator and not a loose hookup?

When I first saw the leak and took it to the shop, that was my first thought. The leak is originating somewhere at the bottom and it doesn't appear to be from any of the hoses. Of course, I couldn't see all of the connections with it on the rack.

Would you suggest any particular culprit?

 

[RavenTai]

witch side? if drivers I would look at the drain cock.

 

[treerootCO]

does anyone else have a problem with the title of this thread?

 

[Dansan]

witch side? if drivers I would look at the drain cock.

The truck is at the shop so I'll take another look on Monday. Looking up from the bottom, the gasket material is saturated.

 

[Dansan]

does anyone else have a problem with the title of this thread?

Good point - would have worked at the proctology forum.

 

[RavenTai]

The truck is at the shop so I'll take another look on Monday. Looking up from the bottom, the gasket material is saturated.

do you mean the foam arround the radiator? or some other gasket material like the oring on the bottom tank?

 

[Dansan]

do you mean the foam arround the radiator? or some other gasket material like the oring on the bottom tank?

Yes - the foam that surrounds the exterior of the radiator, is soaked at the bottom. All hoses and connections appeared to be ok. Because the foam is soaked, it gives the impression the leak is coming from the tank. We looked at it from underneath and down from the top.

Would it make sense to pressure test it and try to get a good look with a flashlight?

Thanks.

 

[alia176]

Would it make sense to pressure test it and try to get a good look with a flashlight?

Thanks.

Absolutely! That's the first thing I'd do while the radiator is in the vehicle.

Good luck.