Radiator Leak

Tiny
1CALIGURL
  • MEMBER
  • 2007 CHEVROLET TAHOE HYBRID
  • 5.3L
  • V8
  • 4WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 135,000 MILES
My car has been overheating and leaking radiator fluid from this damaged area. I first checked all the hoses, which were fine. So, I then pulled off the fan assembly and saw that the bottom corner, where the coolant had sprayed and leaked from looked very different than the bottom corner on the other side. I was wondering if this is something fixable with the K-Seal or JB Weld that I have or if I need to buy a new radiator? And if so, do I need to pull the radiator to get access to the bottom of it? And also, really wondering how damage like this can happen seeing as the area is protected by the fan shroud? Sorry the pictures are upside down I couldn't upload the ones I had taken from my library.
Friday, June 3rd, 2022 AT 11:40 AM

4 Replies

Tiny
1CALIGURL
  • MEMBER
  • 3 POSTS
I can't seem to load an image of the radiator. Even when I take a picture.
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Friday, June 3rd, 2022 AT 11:44 AM
Tiny
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Hello,

Generally speaking, when a radiator starts to leak the best option is to replace it.
As for using any type of sealer or JB weld, it will all depend on the size of the damage and this type of fix is typically not the solution.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-replace-a-car-radiator

Not sure why you are unable to upload pictures, as it is working on our end.

I have attached the radiator replacement steps below for your reference.

Please let me know of any questions.
Thank you.
Image (Click to make bigger)
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Friday, June 3rd, 2022 AT 3:10 PM
Tiny
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If I can put it off a little longer I would like to try. How does something like this happen, the radiator is only 3 years old with less than 30,000 miles on it and no towing or overheating or accidents or anything?
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Sunday, June 5th, 2022 AT 2:49 PM
Tiny
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It is possible to have a manufacturer defect on the radiator that created the leak. It is not common but it does happen.
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Sunday, June 5th, 2022 AT 3:51 PM

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