Radiator weeping

[jams]

I apparently have a very slow leak in the lower part of my radiator. Looks like where the lower end cap meets the core-probably a lap joint that is soldered together. I have the traditional brass/copper radiator.

I was wondering if I could put my DYI plumbing skills to work and fix it. I figure I can clean, flux and re-solder the joint easily.

Can you just use the home center version of solder?

If it gets too involved I can just take it to a radiator shop or splurge and buy a aluminum one.

Seems like a simple fix so don't want to go overboard!

Thanks

[PeteF]

You might try adding a can of Barsleak to the cooling system first. It can be very effective on small leaks. Assuming it is still available at auto parts stores. Good luck

[jams]

I did use the Barsleak many years ago in an old truck I had. I just don't know how long it lasts?

Could be an option??

[Ron61]

Jams,

You might pressure test it first to be sure that is the only small place that is starting to seep. I did that to one of mine and I could see other damp spots showing up along the tank seal, so I took it to a radiator shop and had them pull the tank and clean it and then put the whole thing back together. I never had another problem with it.

Ron

[SwiftDB4]

Unless your soldering skills are really great take it to a radiator shop. As mentioned you can't pressure test it. It's just not that expensive and you have peace of mind that it's a permanent repair.

[patrickt]

Any time in the last 30 years that I have tried to do anything on a radiator myself I just create more problems than I fix. I now pull the radiator, drop it off at a shop, and then put it back in the car after it's fixed properly.

[jams]

Well I fixed it so far so good. I did manage to burn myself .... Oh well

Considering it was a small leak and it's location, I feel confident the fix will hold. If not off to the radiator shop.