Radiator Cap Removal
Thread Starter
Melting Slicks
Joined: Nov 2005
Posts: 2,137
Likes: 482
From: Leonardtown Maryland
Radiator Cap Removal
Several years ago I replaced the radiator on my '82 with an aluminum one. Later (still a while ago) I tried to remove the radiator cap and could not get it off. Basically I was lazy and removed a radiator hose to fill the system enough to use the overflow tank. Today I decided to try again to remove the radiator cap and can't get it off. It will move a little but for some reason I can't get enough leverage to push it in and twist at the same time. Probably because I have gotten to weak over the years (old age). Does anybody have any advice or tips or know of a new tool that can be used to get it off? I'm afraid if I try a pipe wrench on it I'll damage the radiator and be in a world of trouble. Thanks!
-Chris
-Chris
Race Director
Joined: Mar 2017
Posts: 11,828
Likes: 4,447
From: Virginia
Make sure it is cold, and you relieve the pressure first.
Your scenario is exactly why I use Stant caps with the manual pressure relief valve. The last time I removed a stock cap, I had to use channel-lock pliers. But that did work. Push with one hand, lefty loosey with the other.
Your scenario is exactly why I use Stant caps with the manual pressure relief valve. The last time I removed a stock cap, I had to use channel-lock pliers. But that did work. Push with one hand, lefty loosey with the other.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Feb 2018
Posts: 2,313
Likes: 716
From: Marietta GA
The old radiator caps can get stuck sometimes. Try and gently tap on the cap will you are turning it. My old radiator cap was always a pain to remove, so I bought an OEM replacement and it seemed to be easier to remove.
