Types of Radiator Problems
Problems Your Radiator Can Develop in Santa Clara
As an integral part of the cooling system, the radiator protects your generator or vehicle from damage caused by overheating. Every time your generator or vehicle is used, heat is produced and can have a disastrous effect over time, which is why Radiatorland recommends a cooling system inspection about once every two years. As leading radiator experts for nearly 25 years, we have vast proficiency in recognizing cooling system problems, from clogged radiator cores to inoperable engine fans.
Radiator Problems
If you suspect any of the following radiator failure problems, please contact Radiatorland at 408-748-1231.
| Blown Tank-to-Header Seam | An indication that the radiator has been subjected to extreme pressures resulting from exhaust leaking into the cooling system. |
| Cracked Plastic Tanks | High stress in the radiator can cause premature plastic-tank failure. |
| Electrolysis – (External) | Stray electrical current can cause an electrochemical reaction that will produce voids in radiator tubes. |
| Electrolysis – (Internal) | Stray electrical current can cause excessive corrosion of metal components. |
| Fan Damage | A minor collision or a failed water pump can result in radiator damage. |
| Fin Bond Failure | A loss of solder bond between fins and tubes. Fins are loose in core causing loss of heat transfer and reducing radiator strength. |
| Fin Deterioration | A chemical deterioration of the radiator fins most often caused by road salt or seawater. |
| Internal Deposits | Rust and leak inhibitors can form solids that collect in the radiator cooling system and restrict flow. |
| Leaky Inlet/ Outlet Fitting | Leaks in the radiator inlet/outlet area can be caused by fatigue or solder-joint corrosion. |
| Leaky Oil Cooler | – Coolant shows traces of oil. Transmission or engine damage can result from the mixing of coolant with transmission fluid or engine |
| Leaky Tank-to-Header Seam | Failure of the solder joint results in coolant loss. |
| Loose Side Piece | Can lead to flexing of the core and radiator-tube failure. |
| Over Pressurization | Excessive pressure in the radiator caused by defective pressure cap or engine-exhaust leak can destroy the radiator. |
| Soldier Bloom | Solder corrosion caused by degradation of rust and leak inhibitors in antifreeze. Tube-to-header joints are weakened, and corrosion can restrict coolant flow. |
| Steam Erosion | Steam can break down the plastic tank which will produce thinning and ultimately holes in the plastic tank. Frequently, white deposits |
| Tube-to-Header Leaks | Failure of the radiator solder joint on this radiator’s header and tubes results in coolant loss. |
Please keep in mind this is only a guide* and should not be used to diagnose any problem yourself.
*This radiator failure chart is courtesy of Modine Radiator and Radiator Info.