What kind of glue should be used to fix a leaking radiator?
3 Answers
For a leaking radiator, AB glue should be used. AB glue is another name for a two-component adhesive that consists of a base glue and a hardener. The base glue must be mixed with the hardener to achieve the hardening effect. It is a type of room-temperature hardening adhesive and does not rely on temperature to harden. The reasons for a radiator leak are: 1. Damage to the rubber ball valve, resulting in poor sealing; 2. Aging of the rubber gasket at the drainage port under the ball valve, leading to poor sealing; 3. Loosening of the connection between the spherical float in the radiator and the water inlet switch; 4. Cracked water pipe; 5. Caused by emulsified engine oil; 6. The radiator cap is not tightly fastened; 7. Cracked radiator cooling tubes. The radiator, also known as a heat exchanger, is a key component in the automotive cooling system. Its function is to allow the coolant to absorb heat in the radiator, dissipate the heat when it flows to the heat exchanger, and then return to the radiator to circulate, achieving the effect of temperature regulation.
Last time I discovered my car's radiator was leaking, my first instinct was to use epoxy adhesive like JB Weld for a temporary fix since it's heat-resistant and has strong adhesion, which can barely stop the leak. The process isn't complicated—clean the leak spot, apply the glue, and wait for it to dry—but make sure the car is cooled down first. This method is only an emergency solution because radiators operate under high temperature and pressure long-term, causing the adhesive to peel off or clog the system, potentially damaging the engine. Additionally, the leak might stem from radiator aging or impact, so a thorough inspection is needed. I delayed visiting the mechanic for two days to get it welded, ending up spending more on repairing other parts. My advice: stop and check the coolant temperature immediately upon spotting a leak, and avoid long-distance drives. Regular maintenance helps prevent leaks.
For radiator leaks, I often recommend using professional radiator sealants, such as epoxy-based products, which are designed to withstand the high-temperature environment of the cooling system. Simply clean the leaking area and apply the sealant to temporarily plug small holes. However, it's important to note that this is not a universal solution—radiators are made of special materials, and ordinary glue may fail due to thermal expansion and contraction. In practice, I've seen cases where misuse of glue caused blockages in the cooling system, leading to more expensive repairs. It's best to also check for other causes, such as loose or corroded hose connections. Make sure to top up the coolant and test for leaks after parking. For safety, taking the car to a repair shop is the wisest choice. Regular maintenance can extend the radiator's lifespan.
