68 BB Radiator repair

[Rich G.]

I have a fairly original 68 427/435 (L71) and just noticed a small leak in the right side radiator tank an inch or two below the filler. This car runs great and never hot, so I'd really like to keep the original radiator, not to mention, it is original.

So, I probably won't do the R&R myself but I'd still like to ask what the procedure is to get it out and back in. ( The guy who always did all my work sold his shop, so I want to make sure I don't get sold a bill of goods by whomever I take it to.)

Also, I'm assuming that as long as the core is ok the side tank can be repaired or replaced. Yes?

Thanks

Rich

[Mark E.]

Re: 68 BB Radiator repair

The service manual outlines the steps for radiator R&R (at least the '70 SM does). The job is not too bad without AC, but it still involves removing the hood, and loosening then tilting the core support forward so the radiator clears the UCAs as you lift it out.

A good radiator shop should be able to assess your tank to see what can be done. For originality, it would be nice to save it.

[Rich G.]

Re: 68 BB Radiator repair

Thanks Mark.

I should have looked for my SM. I know I have the one for my 66 but not sure if I have the 68.

In any case, thanks for the info.

Rich

[Rich G.]

Re: 68 BB Radiator repair

Found my shop manual. Says the hood doesn't have to come off without C60, but I'm not sure I believe it. Looks to be easier with the hood off.

Rich

[Joe L.]

Re: 68 BB Radiator repair

Found my shop manual. Says the hood doesn't have to come off without C60, but I'm not sure I believe it. Looks to be easier with the hood off.

Rich

Rich-------


Even if it could be done with the hood on, it will be easier with the hood off. Removing the hood is pretty simple.

As far as repairing the tank goes, it can easily be done with the radiator out. A radiator shop may even be able to do it without removing the tank from the radiator depending upon where the leak is. I would have the radiator serviced and pressure-tested at the same time.

[Richard M.]

Re: 68 BB Radiator repair

I don't work on the C3's very often, but IIRC helping a buddy on his '73, if you remove the hood support and tie a rope to the hood male latch and tie it overhead with the hood raised further, would that help? Is it possible on a C3?

[Gary H.]

Re: 68 BB Radiator repair

If you can actually reach the crack, you can try a product called marine tex. Its an epoxy many boaters use for fuel tank leaks, etc I used it on a leak that I noticed at the upper elbow and it has held for 2 years. Painted right over it.

[Mark E.]

Re: 68 BB Radiator repair

Gary- Marine Tex sounds like miracle stuff. I can imagine a good epoxy may work if the surface is prepped well. But remember that unlike fuel tanks, radiators are under pressure so plugging a cooling system leak is a bigger challenge.

Richard- Holding the hood open with a rope is an interesting approach. The front of the hood might make things tight since it dips down and towards the radiator as it's opened. Alternatively, just removing the hood is quick and easy.

[Gary H.]

Re: 68 BB Radiator repair

I think its an epoxy similar to jb weld. I was searching for a quick fix 3 or 4 days before Bloomington Gold Judging and one of my neighbors told me to give it a try. He had used it on the fuel tank of a race boat. He actually carries another form of it with him on his boat for emergency hull repair.

My car is a 427 with AC. I drive it all the time and sit in traffic with the AC. Still no leak 2 years later. I didnt have a crack, seemed like I had a small pin sized hole that fluid was slowly seeping through at the weld.

I never intended this to be a permanent repair, but so far, so good. Give it a try, $10 quick fix. If it doesnt work for you, you are out $10 and you have to pull the radiator. I would suggest that you let out some antifreeze so your crack area can dry out overnight. Sand the area on the tank so it is clean, let this stuff cure for 30 min and you are good to go. Sand and paint.

[Rich G.]

Re: 68 BB Radiator repair

Thanks guys

Yes it looks like the front of the hood would be in the way if lifted much higher than it goes normally

This leak looks like it is on the underside of one of the ridges on the tank. I need to clean it up to get a better look then I'll see if the ten dollar fix will work out.

Thanks for all the help

Rich