Michael, the main problem with plastic tank radiators are the tabs that hold
the tank on the core. Over a period of time they weaken and can no longer
hold the tank tight enough for a good seal. Sometimes they can even crack or
break off of the core itself, making the replacement option the only option.
I have replaced the gaskets on quite a few Dak rads over the years with
excellent results but I'm not sure you will be able to find a radiator shop
willing to do a repair on a plastic tank rad. A lot of shops (don't like to
fool with them.) A quality replacement radiator will be in the 200-250
dollar range. A week or so ago I posted a message about dirt and debris
plugging the fins of Dak rads. and would be interested if this is the case
with yours. Let us all know. Hope this helps!
-----Original Message-----
From: Michael Clark <mike@snakebite.com>
To: dakota-truck@buffnet.net <dakota-truck@buffnet.net>
Date: Monday, April 27, 1998 4:35 AM
Subject: DML: Radiator problem
>Came in tonight and as I walked in front of the truck I smelled a faint
>sweet smell. Poped the hood and sure enough it was anti-freeze. It
>seems to be seeping out at the upper seal between the plastic top and
>main body. It isn't bad yet but it is just a matter of time till it
>fails. Right now it's just a tiny bit, the fan sucked the antifreeze up
>and slung it into my hood pad wich was damp in the front center
>portion. The a/c compressor also had a.f. sprayed on it by the fan.
>
>So how expensive will this be? I will probably get it fixed tommorow
>(today actually). Will I have to junk the whole radiator because of the
>plastic or can it be repaired? Would this be a good time to have the
>radiator cleaned out?
>
>Other than a starter motor this is the only major failure I've had in
>74,000 miles so I guess it's time. Also can the radiator be upgraded
>with an aftermarket one or would it be worth it? If it has to be
>replaced it might as well get replaced with a "performance" grade
>radiator.
>
>Thanks.
>--
>----
> Michael Clark mike@snakebite.com
> '93 MarkIII 4X2 V-8 SWB RC auto, DDBC
> K&N FIPK, Flowmaster cat-back dual, MP SBEC
> Doug Thorley Headers, Moroso Blue Max wires
> 180 degree thermostat, WaterWetter, Brass cap & rotor
> one and only 1/4 mile time of 15.08 @ 90.82
> My Dakota page=> http://web.wt.net/~mclark/dakota.html
> Dakota Webring=> http://web.wt.net/~mclark/webring/ring.html
This archive was generated by hypermail 2b29 : Fri Jun 20 2003 - 12:08:39 EDT