2001 Saturn SL2 Blown Radiators

ECHOCAMPY

MEMBER
2001 SATURN SL2
4 CYL
FWD
AUTOMATIC
96,000 MILES

I had the engine replaced by Saturn 1 year ago, at 76000 miles. Shortly after that, the radiator failed. It was a crack where the Upper Transmission Cooler line entered the radiator. Saturn put an aftermarket radiator in, since the price for the original was way too high. Since then, 5 more radiators have failed, all blowing the seam on the driver's side. What could cause so much pressure in the cooling system to do that?

3 Replies

JAMES W.

MECHANIC
2,395 POSTS

The cooling system is supposed to vent into the coolant tank to allow for expansion. Try running with the cap on the resevoir a little lose so it can vent. Other than that, if you have cylinder compression leaking into cooling system. This could build enough pressure to blow a radiator, but you should have other symptoms of this.

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Thursday, March 12th, 2009 AT 12:49 AM

ECHOCAMPY

MEMBER
3 POSTS

The trick with the cap may have helped from completely losing this radiator. It slowed down loss of fluid, but will still have to replace the radiator as soon as I have the money. Any other suggestions? What other symptoms would I see if it was cylinder compression? The only other thing wrong is the AC, but I can't see that as related.

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Friday, March 20th, 2009 AT 7:02 PM

JAMES W.

MECHANIC
2,395 POSTS

The pressure is coming from somewhere and there's a 90% chance it's coming from a cylinder leak. There are kits available from most parts stores that will detect engine leaks into the cooling system. I would check this out. The problem won't go away. They sell all kinds of engine sealers in the aftermarket but, I have yet to see one work. Let me know what you find.

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Friday, March 20th, 2009 AT 7:42 PM