Small Leak in radiator

[Empty Pockets]

I have a '94 Explorer and we've had a cold snap here in New York recently. This has brought a new problem to the surface. If I turn off the engine before it is warmed up I get a drip from the right side of the radiator while it is sitting. It doesn't leak enough to have an impact on the reservoir level and it seems that once the engine is warmed up it stops. I looked and can't seem to find the source without removing the radiator. Any ideas? I appreciate the help. Can't wait for some real snow.

 

[Syder-1]

I have a 91 and like yours it began to leak in a cold snap, but once it warmed up the leak was gone. My leak was coming from the top seam of the radiator. Took it to a rad shop and they crimped it, which took care of the leak. Plastic and metal rads are not very good. Even the after market ones are comprised of the same material (go figure). This was 3 years ago. This year I have small, but consistent leaks near the two cooling tubes on the drivers side. Will have to replace the rad once the weather warms up, in the spring.

The rad guy told me that this is a common problem once the cold weather arrives. You can try and put some stop leak in the cooling system. Good luck.

Syder-1

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doo doo happens

 

[Bob Saf]

My Radiator started to leak two days ago when it got cold. This is common on the plastic and aluminum radiator. Last winter I changed 2 on the 2 Taurus I own. The best price I found for the Explorer radiator is $130.00 with lifetime replacement. So you know what I am doing on saturday.

Bob S
1994 xlt

 

[Kevin Zeller]

I have a '92 which also has a small leak from the radiator. Mine is coming from between the plastic tank and the core. If I presurise the radiator it will bubble at the top of the seam. Because it is not a major leak, I added some radiator stop leak and am waiting until it gets worse before I buy a new radiator. This is a common leak area for the plastic and aluminum radiators.