radiator leak

[rdunbar123]

I mentioned on another thread that I had a leak in my radiator when it heats up. I found a radiator shop that fixes motorcyle radiators and they pressure tested it and could find a leak. of course they couldnt heat it up. they are going to give it another try. If they still cant find it, is there any safe way to try to seal the leak. I think I know the answer is no but I do need to ask.

[fstsix]

I would find a second opinion a different radiator shop, i wouldn't use additives, how bad was the leak ? are you sure you didn't have some existing water or antifreeze in the fins and when it heated up it started some steam ? i ask because you said it was on the left side leaking, that is the lean side from the kick stand, check also your overflow hose that runs on the top of your radiator to your reservoir, and your radiator cap make sure it is sealing, if it pressure test OK it may be just something simple like a hose clamp. water always finds the path of least resistance. good luck and get on that BAD girl and ride it and Report the Smile Factor back to us, make sure that blower belt is real tight.   

[rdunbar123]

I also thought about the overflow hose. It only takes a few minutes to put it back on so if they cant find it I will get in out in the bright sun and look for it. It drips about one drip every few seconds when it gets hot. stops when it is cold. I agree,no additives. It ran so well, good idle and everything, cant wait to ride. Thanks.

[1FAST6]

Put some chalk around the neck and run it.  It may be leaking from the cap and running down.  It will leave a mark in the chalk.  It's common to bend the tabs on the cap to tighten the seal.  At least that's what I found on mine.

[rdunbar123]

Thats a good idea, as I have said as I get older i am more visually challanged.

[fudgie]

I had a rad leak in my 85 chevy 1/2 ton. bought another at a swap meet. Took swap meet one to be tested and sealed. It had more holes then a shower head. Junked it. Took my original, which leaked, in to be tested and sealed. They found no leak.  ??? Took it home and put it back on. Never leaked again. Could try yours again.

[rdunbar123]

Thanks, good idea, I must have had a hose or cap loose, put old back on, ran at idle until hot and no leaks.