Radiator problem.... advice please
 

Hi guys,

I recently purchased a 1992 SVX and just last weekend on my way to Tahoe to go snowboarding with my girlfriend, and my radiator cracked. Any clue as to where to get a radiator?

Also is there any preventive maintenance I can have done to give the next one longer life?

THanks!

j.

You might try this:
 

run a search
 

Your message does not indicate the location nor severity of the crack: if it is the typical crack in the valley in front of the central bulge you may be able to fix it...

Drain the radiator and get it good and dry. Then drill holes at the furthest ends of the crack, then cut or grind out material along the crack itself. Rough up the surface with a wire brush and clean with isopropal alchohol or some other solvent (acetone, brake cleaner, etc.). Surfaces need to be rough, clean & dry.

The Permatex epoxy stick-type repair compound recommended in the previous posting worked for me: you cut off a piece, knead it for a couple of minutes ONLY until mixed and in a putty-like consistancy, then push it THROUGH THE HOLES AND THE CRACK. It needs to "mushroom" through the crack. Let it dry for a couple hours, then cover all around the repair area with layers of a cold weld product (JB Weld), Permatex's cold weld, etc. You want a product that will both withstand the heat & be impervious to anti-freeze. Let it dry for 24 hours, adding a shop light bulb to warm it up after 8 hours or so (setting time).

If the surfaces are clean, dry & well prepared you have a good chance of the repair lasting quite a while.

Good Luck!;)

p.s. Obviously you need to remove the lower radiator hose and flush out the radiator when you are done to remove any bits of radiator or any repair material that came loose.