Re: Draincock from radiator

Posted by Tim Cole On 2012/4/18 17:05:36

Dear Appin:

On a lift with a good set of torches and a skilled person a new brass one can be soldered. The metal has to be cleaned meticulously, then tinned. Laquer thinner will take the paint off, PPG DX440 will get the grease and oil off, followed by sandpaper and wire brush, then more DX440, then distilled water, then a good liquid flux rated for brass and steel.

Sound expensive? Well not really if you're repairing a Senior radiator in the car.

Once the new unit is installed do not tighten more than enough to close the valve. Just like a dripless bathroom sink. It will stay closed because particulates in the coolant act like thread locker.