Radiator/Sensor

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May 2, 2016 | 11:05 AM

CT54531

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Radiator/Sensor

Just replaced the original radiator in my '87 C4. Went smoothly but...always a but...

What is the sensor(?) just below the upper oil cooler line into the passenger side of the radiator. The 'plug/clip' end into the radiator was a tight/very snug fit in the original but is quite loose in the replacement radiator - loose enough that there is a small drip of coolant from it. Very small but a drip nonetheless.

Anyone experience this. Will high temp sealant be enough to correct? A sleeve of some sort?

May 2, 2016 | 12:27 PM

JrRifleCoach

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Once that sensor is cliped in, you'll be lucky to remove it without breaking it.
Give it some time to settle or just buy a new unit.

May 2, 2016 | 12:36 PM

HAD2HAV2

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It's the Low Coolant sensor. One of the clips broke off when I remove it from my old radiator. Had to buy a new sensor.

Last edited by HAD2HAV2; May 2, 2016 at 12:37 PM.

May 2, 2016 | 01:06 PM

CT54531

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Quote:

Originally Posted by JrRifleCoach

Once that sensor is cliped in, you'll be lucky to remove it without breaking it.
Give it some time to settle or just buy a new unit.

Ahhh, low coolant sensor. Makes perfect sense (no pun intended). Yes it was difficult to get out but it's okay. Just the opening in the new radiator seems bigger so I don't know if getting a new one would be any different.

I see Mid-America has them . Anyone else, do you know?

Thanks very much for the responses.

May 2, 2016 | 02:37 PM

HAD2HAV2

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Quote:

Originally Posted by CT54531

Can you find a fatter O-ring to replace the one on it?

May 2, 2016 | 04:50 PM

CT54531

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Quote:

Originally Posted by HAD2HAV2

Can you find a fatter O-ring to replace the one on it?

Funnily enough, that thought was floating unformed (seems to be happening a lot lately) in my brain for a while but your suggestion brought it out. I thought I had some nice small o-rings in the garage but will need a trip to the store. I think that'll work, though. Thanks again.

May 2, 2016 | 05:38 PM

WVZR-1

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Just buy a new level/low coolant sensor and be done with it. You'tweaked the retaining tabs and you know it's a "leaker" so why ask for more aggravation.