Radiator leaking, side tanks help?

[vsiicalais]

hi my radiator is leaking from one of the plastic side tanks, it has a crack in it and i have read somewhere that the taxi's use metal ones, can i just replace those tanks with metal ones or do i need to buy a brand new radiator? some prices would be helpful too before i start the ring around tomorrow. thanks in advance

 

[Boonz]

im pretty sure that taxi's use the ones with plastic sidetanks aswell.... they arent usually too bad. they are about $350 tho

 

[AttaBoy]

Most taxis do used the metal ones but they are hard to find, the plastic ones will last quite long.

 

[vs_wagon]

Same thing has happened to mine...

Is there an option of sealing/welding the crack? I think it's very small, just under the top hose inlet.

Or, can you buy the side tanks separate as littlegeorgy01 suggested?

Pic courtesy of fellow member "Cormac".
http://forums.justcommodores.com.au/attachments/vr-vs-holden-commodore-1993-1997/33370d1169295368-vs-radiator-leak-pics-temp-gauge-question-vs_split.jpg

 

[Boonz]

you could use some stuff that Snap-on tools supplies... its called Q-bond... pour the powder into the crack, add the glue and let it set in a couple of seconds.... fixes most plastic things

 

[vs_wagon]

Fair enough. I do worry though that if I seal one crack there may be others just waiting for some pressure to open 'em up.

 

[Boonz]

thats a pretty common spot for them to crack as people wriggle the crap out of the hose instead of twisting it to get it off.... theres no harm in trying to fix it.... cos its not going to break the bank if it doesnt

 

[vsiicalais]

i did pick up a reco one from the local natrad dealer for $130 which comes with 3 month warranty which is miles better than the $300 they charge for a new one. mind you these prices are supply only. luckily i knew it only takes 30 mins to fit!!! better to just buy a new one or reco cause i found the my old one that i tried to seal up gave out in less than a week and it was alot worse.

 

[DannyboyDS]

yeah I tried using fiber glass and all maner of things to seal my tiny crack int he radiator (RH side tank) in the end a mate of mine picked me up a brand new one for $100, sometimes it's who you know.

 

[hako]

Why bother fixing - There's plenty on Ebay - this one is $109.95 with very cheap freight (item 170171456039 ). 2 year warranry as well and fits a series 2 VS.