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[Sir Tigger KC]

Just got back from working in sunnier climes for 9 months.  The Migs been parked up in the garage, charged the battery and she started first time , and when warmed up was ticking over like a goodun , until the 'low coolant' message came up and looking underneath there was a big puddle   As far as I remember there was plenty of antifreeze and was parked in the garage. I can't see where its coming from....  :-/ Any ideas??

[tunnie]

check all the main rad pipes, and the HBV (rear of the engine, drivers side)

[Elite Pete]

From the info you've given it could be anywhere. Best thing would be to get the car out of the garage and have a good look, see if you can give a general area where the water is leaking from

[Sir Tigger KC]

Investigated my water leak further.

The rad has plastic casings on each end and it looks as though the water is coming from the passenger side, just above the red drain valve.  Also there's what looks like a tiny hole or crack that is bubbling on top of the casing....

When it gets up to temp the water comes out in a steady stream so I'm guessing radweld isn't going to do the trick!

I'm thinking it's going to need a new rad, but I'm wondering if anyone else has come across a similar problem? and what might it cost?

Thanks

[dbug]

If its only a small hole - I had one on top of the stub the top hose goes onto - you can try carefully melting the hole shut with a soldering iron - worked for me.

[jonnycool]

Don't ever use radweld, some of the finer pipes in the cooling system will block

[Sir Tigger KC]

As I said I think its abit beyond radweld anyway, judging by the amount of water coming out!!

But thanks for the advice...

[Richard A]

Had the same problem with that side of the rad ie above the 'red drain tap' but also between the two 'temp sensors'.
Nothing worked in sealing it, replaced with a second-hand rad from a 'tmx' a OOF member, ok after 20k.
Ask in the parts 'section' someone will help.
Regards
Richard a

[Sir Tigger KC]

Thanks Richard, I think that's the way forward, as I don't think that even half a dozen eggs in the rad would stop this leak!!

[Sir Tigger KC]

Does anyone know how long it should take a decent mechanic to replace a rad? I think thats going to be abit beyond me....

[blue_dream]

Hi
   Use glass filler, good for urgent repairs, mine still ok after 856 miles 

[goonv6]

If you were closer, I'd do it. Its not a difficult job to do, well within the scope of a first timer. If you want some help, we'll gladly talk you through it. I think there is a how to on here too...

[Bionic]

Sorry to tell you m8 but I took all this advice before and tried every adhesive and filler on the market today including the very high temperature and silicone ones but they all let it leak again after a while. I have a theory that the plastic itself somehow begins to deteriorate and weaken. I got myself a used rad from here; eBay Shop: Omega Spare Parts Call 0770 6495877 and its been perfect since. Delivery was the next morning and the price was excellent, best of all is if you return and buy more the postage is then free!
More good news is that it took me a couple of hours to do myself, I am disabled, and have to rest often  and it was very straightforward. Just use the OOF guide and you will be laughing and proud of yourself when its done.
Do yourself a favour and save the grief, do what I did and change it cos you will not know when yours will let you down even after a 'repair'. It might be when you need it the most!
GudLuk

[bob.dent]

Just had my radiator replaced and bought it from this site.....
http://www.carcooling.co.uk/
Quite reasonable at £126 incl. next day delivery and VAT.
Didn't do it myself but my garage said they had a problem with a couple of siezed bolts but otherwise not too bad a job. You will need to have your aircon regassed afterwards.

[Sir Tigger KC]

Thanks for the replies.  I can't spot a how to guide here though, but I'm good at not seeing wood for the trees!! Could someone point me in the right direction please??