1963 Radiator Internal Leaks

[Frederick H.]

Unfortunately the original radiator is beyond repair according to two different test results from local radiator repair shops (not a good idea to chance driving with one that old but sometimes it's hard to let go ). I will get one from DeWitt's once the existing one that I purchased in 1985 from a Chevrolet dealer gives up the ghost. Any thoughts on the original before it goes to the recycle bin?

[Duke W.]

Use a 50-70 percent blend of Zerex G-05 and distilled water.

Be sure the lower two and upper mounting rubber bushings are in good shape. They electrically isolate the radiator from the chassis to prevent the formation of a galvanic cell that will corrode the aluminum.

I suggest you use an ohm meter to check electrical resistance between the current radiator and chassis/battery ground. It should be infinite. Years ago I recommended that Dewitt's include the two lower and single upper mounting rubber bushings as part of any new new aluminum radiator, but I don't think they ever did.

Some have argued with me about the above, but I learned about galvanic cells and the EMF from Mr. Kato, my high school chemistry teacher (and the best teacher I ever had) back in 1963, and this combined with purchasing a 1963 AIM in the mid seventies explained why the radiator in my SWC developed pin hole leaks about that time.

There was no upper mount rubber bushing... it was never installed at the plant, so the radiator was not electrically isolated from ground, but I just didn't know that it should be there until I read the AIM. The lack of that rubber bushing and Mr Kato's excellent chemistry teaching allowed me to understand why the radiator failed so early even after I had done complete coolant system flushes every two years.

Live and learn!

Duke

[Frederick H.]

Had no idea about the grounding on the radiator and any relationship to aluminum corrosion. Sounds like you had one heck of a chemistry teacher and you applied it well.

Thanks!

[Bruce G.]

Duke was speaking of teacher Chris Kato (7th degree black belt) but greatest achievement was his legendary career as a high school teacher and mentor for many young adults in Seattle. I was friends with his brother Hideo when I lived on Beacon Hill in the 50's. Impacted countless young lives. RIP. Bruce Green