C4 Tech/Performance L98 Corvette and LT1 Corvette Technical Info, Internal Engine, External Engine

Need help on radiator cap

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Old Jul 27, 2004 | 01:27 PM
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Default Need help on radiator cap

Tried for the past week to remove my radiator cap with no results. I have a 1996 coupe. Tried when it was warm, cool and cold and still no
results. I'm not having temperture problems, it actually runs rather cool. I still need to get that cap off. Please help !
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Old Jul 27, 2004 | 03:16 PM
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Unless there is corrosion you should be able to release the cap by pressing down hard on the center while rotationg CCW.

If you need more grip, try a set of channel locks; if you suspect corrosion, try some PB Blaster.
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Old Jul 27, 2004 | 03:24 PM
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Originally Posted by 65Z01
Unless there is corrosion you should be able to release the cap by pressing down hard on the center while rotationg CCW.

If you need more grip, try a set of channel locks; if you suspect corrosion, try some PB Blaster.
I'll give it another try, thanks.
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Old Jul 27, 2004 | 03:38 PM
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Same on my 92, have to push really hard.
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Old Jul 27, 2004 | 06:38 PM
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Originally Posted by lbitp37
Same on my 92, have to push really hard.
The first time I removed my radiator cap, it was on so tight I had to use a monkey wrench to turn it.
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Old Jul 27, 2004 | 09:31 PM
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I replaced my cap with a Stant and it has 4 ears instead of just 2. It makes it alot easier to remove. Craig
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Old Jul 28, 2004 | 08:05 AM
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Originally Posted by elefkow
Tried for the past week to remove my radiator cap with no results. I have a 1996 coupe. Tried when it was warm, cool and cold and still no
results.
Not sure what you mean by "warm".....but don't ever remove a radiator cap from a hot engine......I have twice in my life seen people get very seriously burned doing this!!!!!!

Like the others have said you need to first push down against the "spring" and then rotate the cap.....It is pretty hard to do and takes a little force..

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Old Jul 28, 2004 | 10:17 AM
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Default Try this

I have used this tool called a "boa constrictor" which works great on bigger diameter things like a sticking rad cap. It's a thick rubber band attached to a plastic handle and works great for extra torque needed for things like this. Just remeber to push down while turning.

Get them at wall mart, cheap. All kinds of uses over the years.

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Old Jul 28, 2004 | 10:33 AM
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If all else fails, take it to a reputable radiator shop. They have (or should have) a tool made by Snap-on that is made to remove the radiator cap. If it's that hard to remove, take along a new one (16 pounds I think) and put the new one on. Good advice on removing while hot: never do it (let the radiator people handle it).
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