Hey all

Noticed a hole in the radiator. Is it worth fixing or replacing is the only way?

 

Thanks!

replace it , if it fails it could kill the engine and leave you stranded

You can try and bodge fix it as a temporary measure with one of the various leak seal products on the market. These are the type that that you add to the expansion tank.

 

Holts Radweld is one, but read the instructions carefully.

 

However, the best policy is to fit a new radiator, as most modern radiators are usually non-repairable.

Edited 24 January, 20215 yr by mk2tastic

The problem with the radwelds, etc, is that they can end up anywhere in the cars waterways. Last time I changed a Mk2 one, a new radiator was so cheap that it wasn't worth buying a second hand one or a couple of bottles of repair goop.

2 hours ago, Yeti said:

The problem with the radwelds, etc, is that they can end up anywhere in the cars waterways. Last time I changed a Mk2 one, a new radiator was so cheap that it wasn't worth buying a second hand one or a couple of bottles of repair goop.

 

Very true and as you point out, for the costs involved it’s better off all round to just bite the bullet and buy a new rad. it’s also a good time to flush out the cooling system and renew all the coolant, as that in itself deteriorates with age, which can lead to sludge and corrosion in the system.

 

The old Blue Coolant was only really had a 2 year life, the later more modern ones last longer, but still should be changed periodically.

 

 

 

Excellent info here gents. Appreciate it.

I have noticed that local online shops here show the tubes and the unit on different sides. They assured me on the phone that this fits my AEE 1.6 1999 MK3:

 

however this one from eBay looks different, and honestly, more resembles the one I have installed (Unless I am missing here something completely):

What gives?

Also, as this a project car, is there a risk that eventually (like in 10 years or so) they'll run out of new radiators to buy for these models? Just curious

On 24/01/2021 at 20:45, PIXIP said:

Excellent info here gents. Appreciate it.

I have noticed that local online shops here show the tubes and the unit on different sides. They assured me on the phone that this fits my AEE 1.6 1999 MK3:

 

however this one from eBay looks different, and honestly, more resembles the one I have installed (Unless I am missing here something completely):

What gives?

Help?

Done. Replaced. It was a pain to get it through the condenser.

But now the engine runs too cold 😞

 

Edited 9 March, 20215 yr by PIXIP