Radiator hose leak

40cpe

40cpe

Well-known member
On my '55 with a stock radiator I have a drip where the upper hose connects to the radiator. The hose isn't new, but not old either. I've cut the connection end back, used two clamps, etc, but it still drips under pressure and not under pressure. It is not much, a drip every 2-3 minutes, but I need it gone. I've cleaned/inspected the radiator inlet and the hose and see nothing wrong. Two TIGHT clamps should hold it but NOOOO, it still drips. What am I missing? Is there a sealant for this?
 
Are you sure you don't have a leak at the solder joint where the snout for the radiator hose is soldered to the top tank, and the coolant is seeping back to the hose ?

Sal
 
scicala said:
Are you sure you don't have a leak at the solder joint where the snout for the radiator hose is soldered to the top tank, and the coolant is seeping back to the hose ?

Sal
Click to expand...

I'm pretty sure it is coming from under the hose. I've wiped it down several times and watched it re-form right at the end of the hose. I just bought another hose to see if it changes anything. I should know in a couple of hours.
 
I have seen the leak that Sal described many times, and more than once was thought to be the hose. most times it is a hair line crack that is hard to see.
 
well, you both were right and my face is red. I cleaned the inlet connection down to the brass and pressured it up again. It is a small pinhole in the solder right at the hose end on the radiator. The radiator has a new core and I guess it wasn't tested correctly afterwards.
 
That's great that you found the problem. It's nice for me to take a good guess once in a while too. Lol

Sal
 
yes, glad you found the problem. the way I remember these things , is because it has happened to me. the more you work on cars the more "odd" things you learn. if it is one that gives you trouble, you usually never make the same mistake twice. By the way I like your car. always liked the '55 and the '56.
 
The radiator shop was able to re-solder around the neck without taking it out of the car. so far, so good. Thankful for that.

Alaska Jim, thanks for the complement. I bought the car "done", but have had lots of rework and adjustments to do. I'm about to get there.
 

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