Radiator leak fix (and power steering bonus)
jarl
09-15-2010, 05:57 PM
I'm afraid I know the answer but just in case:
My '94 TS is leaking coolant from the top of the radiator. The leak seems to be under the crimped metal that clamps the plastic tanks to the core. I think the service manual includes some instructions about replacing one of the tanks, but I can't seem to find any replacement parts for this.
So the question is: is the only viable alternative to replace the radiator?
Now for the bonus points: the power steering is leaking as well, and the problem seems to be the steering rack. Has anyone fixed a leaking steering rack using the "repair kit" available at places like Rockauto? I assume it's just a set of seals/o'rings, and I know after all the work removing the steering rack it makes sense just to replace the whole thing. However, the money is tight this days, so the cheaper alternative sounds attractive. But is it too hard to repair?
My '94 TS is leaking coolant from the top of the radiator. The leak seems to be under the crimped metal that clamps the plastic tanks to the core. I think the service manual includes some instructions about replacing one of the tanks, but I can't seem to find any replacement parts for this.
So the question is: is the only viable alternative to replace the radiator?
Now for the bonus points: the power steering is leaking as well, and the problem seems to be the steering rack. Has anyone fixed a leaking steering rack using the "repair kit" available at places like Rockauto? I assume it's just a set of seals/o'rings, and I know after all the work removing the steering rack it makes sense just to replace the whole thing. However, the money is tight this days, so the cheaper alternative sounds attractive. But is it too hard to repair?
AutoService101
09-15-2010, 08:13 PM
i would suggest pulling the radiator and bringing to a radiator shop, they can typically fix a radiator for about $65 and they will warranty their work. As far as trying to replace the shaft seals you can try but 9 times out of 10 the shaft is worn enough that it will continue to leak even with new seals. Years ago we used to put new seals in but the success ratio was not worth the effort. :runaround:
LMP
09-17-2010, 01:51 PM
When my rack staarted leaking, it was a little corroded metal tube that goes from one place to another on the rack itself. I changed the rack for a rebuilt...but the rebuilt still had the original piping ...but in better shape than mine.
jarl
09-17-2010, 03:30 PM
When my rack staarted leaking, it was a little corroded metal tube that goes from one place to another on the rack itself. I changed the rack for a rebuilt...but the rebuilt still had the original piping ...but in better shape than mine.
Interesting... I am not 100% sure it's the seals (there's so much oil soaked everywhere it's difficult to see anything). I'll try to take a look (but from where??? :( )
Regarding the radiator: a new one is $100 or so.. I don't think it makes much sense to pay someone $65 to end up with the same 16 year old radiator...
Interesting... I am not 100% sure it's the seals (there's so much oil soaked everywhere it's difficult to see anything). I'll try to take a look (but from where??? :( )
Regarding the radiator: a new one is $100 or so.. I don't think it makes much sense to pay someone $65 to end up with the same 16 year old radiator...
AutoService101
09-17-2010, 04:16 PM
Interesting... I am not 100% sure it's the seals (there's so much oil soaked everywhere it's difficult to see anything). I'll try to take a look (but from where??? :( )
Regarding the radiator: a new one is $100 or so.. I don't think it makes much sense to pay someone $65 to end up with the same 16 year old radiator...
Get some brake cleaner and spray the rack down best possible, that may help determine where your leak is coming from. Porbably buy 3 cans.
I agree on tha radiator if it's only $100 that is the way to go and is a great price.
Regarding the radiator: a new one is $100 or so.. I don't think it makes much sense to pay someone $65 to end up with the same 16 year old radiator...
Get some brake cleaner and spray the rack down best possible, that may help determine where your leak is coming from. Porbably buy 3 cans.
I agree on tha radiator if it's only $100 that is the way to go and is a great price.
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