X575 radiator leak

[tacomatim]

My radiator has a pin hole leak in the front towards the top (sucked in a piece of metal - long story). Anyone try and seal a small leak with something like a "Stop Leak" seal product? Will this harm my cooling system? Right now I just keep topping off my resevoir with coolant - but the stuff is costly ($14 a gallon). Any ideas?

 

[beenthere]

:welcome:
If me, I'd check it out with the Deere dealer. Might have a recommendation for you, and also might be something that would fit under warranty.

But years back, I had good luck with stop leak too.

 

[tacomatim]

I'm sure that is good advice - too old for warranty (2003). I wil check with the dealer - thanks!

 

[lyurkin]

I use black pepper for leaks. It works well for holes. Put 1 tablespoon in.

 

[Labrat]

They make repair kits for microchannel heat exchangers that I'm sure would hold up on a radiator repair.

Metal Patching -Red Epoxy

 

[sunnyside360]

They make repair kits for microchannel heat exchangers that I'm sure would hold up on a radiator repair.

Metal Patching -Red Epoxy

WOW! I'm impressed -- will have to remember this for future use. One can learn something every day on this forum.

Another possible fix is "Bars Leak" sold in most automotive stores. Good stuff for small leaks. Years ago some Detroit car manufacturers put this in new cars before shipping. I've used it to fix leaking intake manifold gaskets besides radiators.

 

[jonsstihl]

you need to be adding 50/50 mix of coolant and water so a gallon should cost you only 7 dollars. if you end up with straight coolant in the system you could end up with overheating problems in extreme conditions

I have had good luck with subaru coolant conditioner. one bottle treats six liters approx. 1.5 gallons. and it will not void the subaru warranty so I wouldn't expect any damage due to its use. I've only used it to cure a head gasket leak on my subaru but I wouldn't hesitate to use it on my kubota if I had too. best part is it is cheap, only cost me $1.60

all depends how big the hole is.

 

[tacomatim]

I purchased the 50/50 premix for aluminum engines - I guess that is why it was so expensive. Thanks for the tip on the radiator conditioner - I will try it.

 

[Gator6x4]

If the tank is metal do the same thing a Radiator Repair Shop would do. You will need, solder, flux (same as that used for copper) and a electric soldering tool? Sand the area of the "Pin Hole", apply flux heat the flux with the tool. Apply solder when metal still hot from heating. Let cool fill with coolant.

 

[tacomatim]

My understanding is that it is aluminum - I am not a welder, so I will try some of the stop leak products and hope for a seal. Thanks for your response.