Radiator Cap

[John Feiter]

I have a 69 L46 with a copper radiator. The radiator came with an RC-26 radiator cap on it when I bought the car, which I now see isn't correct for that application, according to the judging manual. That cap belongs on an aluminum expansion tank. I should have an RC-15 cap for my radiator. Now my question. Both caps are rated at 15 pounds pressure, and both caps fit my radiator. What's the difference? Does it really matter which cap I'm using, other than for judging purposes? I plan on getting the correct one, but I'd appreciate anyone's comments. I've had a little overheating problem and I'm wondering if the cap had anything to do with it. Thanks.

John

[Joe L.]

Re: Radiator Cap

John-----

The only difference between an RC-15 and an RC-26 is the fact that the RC-26 has a special insulator built into the cap to isolate the steel/brass components of the cap from the aluminum supply tank which it is designed to be compatible with. The insulator prevents dis-similar metal (galvanic) corrosion from deteriorating the aluminum.

You can use an RC-26 in place of an RC-15, but you shouldn't use an RC-15 in place of an RC-26. Both caps have a relief pressure of 15 PSI.

[Joe L.]

Re: Radiator Cap

John-----

The only difference between an RC-15 and an RC-26 is the fact that the RC-26 has a special insulator built into the cap to isolate the steel/brass components of the cap from the aluminum supply tank which it is designed to be compatible with. The insulator prevents dis-similar metal (galvanic) corrosion from deteriorating the aluminum.

You can use an RC-26 in place of an RC-15, but you shouldn't use an RC-15 in place of an RC-26. Both caps have a relief pressure of 15 PSI.

[John Feiter]

Thanks, Joe *NM* *NM*

[John Feiter]

Thanks, Joe *NM* *NM*

[Jack H.]

If You're Going to Have Your Car Flight Judged. .

take care in purchasing a cap as some sold by Corvette parts vendors will NOT pass scrutiny. "Been there, done that." E-mail me if you wish to share my experience. Good luck, Jack

[Jack H.]

If You're Going to Have Your Car Flight Judged. .

take care in purchasing a cap as some sold by Corvette parts vendors will NOT pass scrutiny. "Been there, done that." E-mail me if you wish to share my experience. Good luck, Jack

[Patrick H.]

Re: If You're Going to Have Your Car Flight Judged

Jack,

Agreed. In fact, I don't know of any reproduction radiator cap from 1961 or so onward that is not easily detectable as a replacement.

John Pirkle restores some radiator caps, and I would consider calling him for one if needed.

Patrick

[Patrick H.]

Re: If You're Going to Have Your Car Flight Judged

Jack,

Agreed. In fact, I don't know of any reproduction radiator cap from 1961 or so onward that is not easily detectable as a replacement.

John Pirkle restores some radiator caps, and I would consider calling him for one if needed.

Patrick

[Jack H.]

That's Where I Got Mine. . .

Patrick, check your e-mail. Jack

[Jack H.]

That's Where I Got Mine. . .

Patrick, check your e-mail. Jack

[Robert C.]

Re: Radiator caps. . .

No repro matches the original caps. There will be an article soon in the restorer on the differences when ever Terry gets around to it.

[Robert C.]

Re: Radiator caps. . .

No repro matches the original caps. There will be an article soon in the restorer on the differences when ever Terry gets around to it.