Leaky radiator

[Vaderfan]

Hello, just drove my first cub home today. I am new to them and am excited to learn more as I work on it. The radiator on my cub is leaking. How hard is it to get out? Is it worth taking it to a radiator shop or buy a new one? Thanks.

[staninlowerAL]

Welcome to the forum. To remove the radiator, remove the grill screen, hood/fuel tank and upper radiator hose. Remove the bolts at the bottom of the radiator that hold it to the bolster. If its been a long time since they have been removed soak them with some penetrant and be patient. Not unusual for some of them to break. A long extension allows the best access for the bolts on the fan side and work from the top. Usually a repair shop will give you an opinion about repair. My experience has been about $100 for testing and repairs or replace with a good one like Clancy for about $250.

[Bill]

First be sure the fluid is not coming out of the overflow, this is caused by radiator level being to high.
Bill

[indy61]

This radiator shop may be fairly close to you. You might consider hauling the tractor there and let them remove it. Looks like they also clean fuel tanks if you need it.

http://woodysradiator.com/agricultural/3932466

[Vaderfan]

Thanks for the replies. I was able to get it out, no broken bolts thankfully. I do not see any evidence of the radiator leaking. No green residue on the tubes or fins. The flange gasket was broke in several pieces. I will call Woody’s to see what they can do for me, as far as checking, cleaning, etc. I did notice sludge buildup in the bottom housing. It will be cleaned out real good before it all goes back together. Thanks again.

[Dale Finch]

It would help the cleaning if you remove the lower water inlet and flush everything out through there, installing a new radiator hose at the same time. You would need to replace the gasket...easy to make or TM Tractor has them:
http://www.tmtractor.com/new/en/244fp.htm

Before you reinstall the radiator, I suggest you chase all the bolt holes to clean them out really well.
TM Tractor sells a Stainless Steel bolt set:

http://www.tmtractor.com/new/co/648fp.htm

[Glen]

Hi,
If you remove the lower water elbow, like Dale said above, and wash out the block, water will probably be on the starter.
I would cover the starter with a plastic grocery bag, before beginning, and keep the starter dry. It's better to keep water out of electrical parts.

[mikes5785]

While on the topic of leaking radiators has anyone tried the new premixed antifreeze on the market?

If yes how well did it work? I have 4 tractors I’m going to be cleaning, flushing and refilling

Mike

[k hutchins]

Mike
Personally l prefer to mix my own. Otherwise you're paying for 50% water in the premixed.
JMO
Hutch