Radiator Advice

[cgustafs]

Have an aluminum radiator from a skidsteer that needs a 3" hole repaired. I searched the forum and didn't find any hints. Anybody have advice on how to proceed? I have a Dynasty 200dx and would welcome input on settings. How do I clean the aluminum up so it is spotless? The radiator has been painted but is corroding in spots.... just wonder how I can get inner core clean enough?

[TJS]

I assume the hole is in the tank and not the fins. Make a piece the same thickness as the raditor material so it overlaps the hole. Use some 3003 or 6061. Use 5356 filler. Clean with dedicated stainless steel brush and solvent of your choice (I am not going to get into a pissing contest about acetone here). Clean is the key here. Set the balance around 74 and the freq about 130 - 150hz or so. Amps should follow the rule of 1 amp per thou. So if it is 90 thou. then should be around 90amps. I like to run hotter that that though (for me I would use 125amps). Make sure you pressure test after you are done. Good luck.
T.J.

[cruizer]

Almost really better off sending it to a rad shop for a recore. Really not all that expensive compared with attempting to fix it yourself. Let them warranty the repair.

[cgustafs]

Thanks to both of you. I probably should take it in, but then how do I justify welder to wife??? lol I will check our recoreing

I should have been more clear... the hole is actually in 3-4 of the tubes in the finned area right in middle of radiator.

I like your guide of 1 amp per thou., never thought if it that way but is a simple guide. Thanks!

[MAC702]

If repair is out, you can plug those tubes at top and bottom. Minor loss in cooling.