Radweld???

[Moto]

I have the smallest weep of dampness on the bottom brass tank of the original radiator. It's been like this since I had the radiator recored 5 years ago. It doesn't drip or ever need coolant topping up it's that small, however it annoys me and I want to fix/replace it.

I've Googled Radweld type products and they seem to have a pretty poor reputation for clogging up waterways, particularly in old heater matrix. However I'm thinking such a slight weep (probably a 'not perfect' braze or something similar) that has got no worse over 5 years, could this be a perfectly good solution to the problem. Or do I bite the bullet and take out the radiator to either re-braze or replace?

Moto

[Granturadriver]

Removing and re-soldering is certainly the better method. But I have also used the product before and used it to seal a leaking cylinder head gasket. It worked and lasted for several years until the gasket was replaced during an engine overhaul.

[5.0ltr]

All I can say about that stuff is it left me overheating on the M62 in a blizzard without any heat for the car in a convertible with a particularly frosty girlfriend. Up to you.
Never used it again, I replaced the radiator later.

[phillpot]

Radweld and similar products work by "setting" when exposed to air, i.e. when they come out the leaky hole.

There is no reason they should clog radiators or heater matrix.

I had a similar very slight weep on my Taimar radiator, don't tell the guy who bought it but this sorted it without issue for years

[keynsham]

I have used Radweld (and Bars Leaks) in a lot of old vehicles over the years and never had an issue with it. If it is clogging up pipes, then I suspect the pipes in question are already half clogged to begin with as the additive in it should only collect at locations of very small leaks. I just used a bottle to stop a weep on the 350i radiator and it has worked fine as always!!..... and a lot cheaper and less hassle than a replacement or re-cored radiator job!

[cjb44]

I have used Bars Leaks with success on many old brit cars without any problem, would I dare do it on a TVR I am not so sure.

[P100]

I have had mixed results with Radweld.
Ive always looked at it as a solution to a breakdown rather than a long term fix.

These days I use Forte leak stop which seems a much more friendly product, and it doesnt clog up your radiators or heater matrix.

Let me know if you want some as I keep it in stock.

[Adrian@]

Steve, IF you want a core radiator to work on whilst your car still runs, then email me a picture of what you have (I will check it against the ones I have) ..it will cost you a donation to my chosen charity. A@

[Moto]

Thanks Adrian@ and all the responses. Interesting feedback with a mix of good & not so good experiences.

I think I'll probably go down the safe route - remove, inspect & braze / replace. It's probably the only way to be sure I don't kick the can down the road for it to return at an inconvenient moment.

Moto