1957 Thunderbird Cooling System

1

1967 Camaro

Member
We were on our way, in the Thunderbird, to our new home, about a three hour drive when about 40 miles into the trip the car overheated. Upon inspection, evidently the heater valve diaphragm ruptured and allowed coolant to escape. The top radiator hose was very tight so maybe the thermostat stuck shut. Anyway, I temporarily eliminated the heater valve with a regular elbow and barbed fitting. Additionally, the radiator developed a pin hole in the top tank just to the side of the top hose nipple. My question is, has anyone repaired one of these radiators themselves? I did glob some JB weld over the pin hole enough to drive back home but I want to repair it correctly and I would prefer to do it myself. I do have a pressure tester. Thanks!!
 
If it's brass top tank, which is what my bird had, you clean it carefully, flux it, and solder the pinhole with a propane torch. You'll need the coolant level down a little (avoid steam) and the cap off. The big deal is "clean" and the right flux, but there must be a plumber on here who'll know the specifics.

There's also been a lot of bad "new" heater valves out there, so you might ask for a recommendation. Or buy the cable operated ones some bird suppliers offer. But I've had those that didn't shut off too.
 
Thanks! That is exactly what I did. Cleaned the area down to the brass and original solder. Took about three soldering sessions but finally got it sealed. I'd hate to have to buy a new radiator based on some of the prices I've seen.
 
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