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Problem #2 in the series of my 1970 L46: as part of my task to replace the thermostat (and possibly sending unit), I decided to go ahead and perform the super-easy task of draining, flushing, and adding fresh coolant to the radiator. Except that instead of the drain plug screw coming out, the ENTIRE elbow broke off from the radiator - and I didn't exert that much pressure at all. It appears that this had happened previously and someone maybe just J-B welded it back in place? Even after soaking in PB Blaster for 2 hours, I still can't get the actual drain plug screw to move...
Other than replacing the entire radiator, can anyone think of a permanent fix to repair this with the radiator in place (if I have to pull the radiator, I will simply replace it)? The gray hole in the middle is where it was connected to the radiator
In the words of Ralphie on Christmas Story: OH FUDGE!
There are numerous glues, epoxies on the market to "weld" that as a bubba fix. But would you really trust it miles from home?
Not saying I would buy a new Rad, but a Rad shop could clean it and braze a new fitting on there for a fraction of the cost.
Pulling the Rad is not too bad of job once the shroud is pushed back and the hood is off. Trace the hood hinges with a Sharpie for future reference.
Two Rad Hoses, two trans lines, pull straight up and out.
Great time to have the radiator cleaned out. May or may not be worth the effort. You’ll see what outside of the rad looks like.
Then you can clean up and inspect the brackets. I found my ‘71 missing two upper brackets and rubber cushions. Cleaned up after bubba some more. Good time to replace lower hose and make sure the “spring” ( anti- collapser) is in the hose.
Ha! I just did a quick search to see how much a new radiator would cost, and maybe replacement is NOT such a good idea. I'll definitely take your advice and take it to a local radiator shop to see what they can do to fix it first!
I have one of these and really get a lot of use out of it. This helps prevent that issue. Drop suction hose into the radiator tank so it sucks from the bottom and put the other hose into a 5 gallon pail. Pull the drill trigger and watch it go. Empties the radiator pretty quickly. Drummond pump from Harbour Freight I got for $14.99 You can attach 3 ft long hose stubs from old garden hoses or just replace your clothes washer hoses (before they rupture from age) and use the take-offs. Cut off the end fittings you no longer need.
1970 - broken radiator drain plug
