‘98 3.0 radiator leak… how to solve?

[djjauntyj]

Hey all… a question for the experts. My truck’s (‘98 3.0/auto/rwd) cooling system was leaking from multiple places, so I used a cap tester/leak down kit to find them. One of the points is here, where the fitting for one of the transmission cooler lines threads into the radiator side tank:

So what the hell do I do about this? Appreciate any insight.

 

[bobbywalter]

rub some dirt on it.

get a new radiator....

oring.

epoxy

bars leak...

nothing.

ya know... stuff

 

[superj]

i think you are kind of stuck replacing the radiator when they leak from those spots. i don't think you can just snug them up but, its free to try

 

[djjauntyj]

i think you are kind of stuck replacing the radiator when they leak from those spots. i don't think you can just snug them up but, its free to try

I’m kind of wondering if I could just reseal that bigger hex fitting where it joins into the tank. I would just unscrew it and see, but I’d like to make sure it’s possible before I do something I can’t undo. Any insight into what’s behind it?

 

[pentode]

Edit: You said you pressure tested it - what's leaking there, coolant or trans fluid?

I can't speak to that exact radiator, but often times those fittings are screwed into threaded brass inserts that are molded into the plastic. My fear would be if that insert is loose and you can't see it from the filler neck, it might not be possible to screw the thing back in. However, as @superj said, the normal worst case scenario is to replace the rad so it might be worth a shot. See the edit I'm making above now though.

 

[superj]

from what i have read on other forums, unthreading those larger hex parts from the radiator will be the demise of the radiator. apparently, it twists something internally that is already on the edge of holding because of age, causing it to not hold after trying to put it back together.

i tried to google to find a picture or video but my google-fu is off today

 

[superj]

found one. skip to around 2:15. 3:20 is when he actually pulls the trans cooler out though

What Does A Car Radiator Transmission Cooler Look Like? Let's See! - YouTube

 

[nickname23]

Hey all… a question for the experts. My truck’s (‘98 3.0/auto/rwd) cooling system was leaking from multiple places, so I used a cap tester/leak down kit to find them. One of the points is here, where the fitting for one of the transmission cooler lines threads into the radiator side tank:

View attachment 118353
So what the hell do I do about this? Appreciate any insight.

Replacing a radiator isn't that hard especially on Ford's the only difference is how big the thing is to manhandle.

Biggest issue is breaking lines especially to the reservoir/overflow. Be very careful your hunting wabbits..

You can also use the correct grade of plumbing tape but it's very easy to screw that up via people putting it on upside-down or putting too much it ends up in the system.

Every single time a radiator leaked like that, within a year or so you'll overheat and blow a head.
Worst case scenario but it's common.

 

[nickname23]

Definitely get the BIGGEST container you can find and slide it under the front. Wide covering tire to tire and reaching towards the oil pan.

It's a messy job.

 

[nickname23]

Recommend removing from the top, unbolt everything drain everything and replace with fresh coolant.

Then burp the truck, also messy especially first time doing it.

Check your fan clutch too, that's fun to get off