gluefaq.com
Home » How To Repair a Plastic Radiator with Epoxy: Radiator Maintenance

How To Repair a Plastic Radiator with Epoxy: Radiator Maintenance

Is your radiator leaking? How can you repair the cracked plastic without having to buy an entirely new radiator? With epoxy! This blog post will show you how to successfully apply epoxy in repairing your broken plastic radiator.

Click here to skip to our recommended pick!

How To Repair a Plastic Radiator

Image
Product
J-B Weld 2120 Radiator and Plastic Repair Kit
  • affordable price
  • easy to use
  • last long
Versachem 90214 Plastic Tank and Radiator Repair Kit
  • effective
  • fast bonding
  • easy to use
Super Glue Pro Seal N62020 Instant Gas Tank and Radiator Repair
  • fast bonding
  • simple to use
Blue Magic 6022K QuikSteel Metal Tank Repair Kit
  • fix fast and permanent
  • NSF certified
  • instructions in 3 languages

Spotting the problem in cracked radiator

It is important for your radiator to be checked regularly if you want it to last. You should identify any potential problems because these are easily spotted by looking at the exterior of the unit and checking all its components.

Spotting the problem in cracked radiator

You should check all the fittings, pipes and plates. If you notice any cracks on these parts of your radiator then it is likely that this has already caused damage internally to its core system. You should repair plastic radiator with epoxy as soon as possible before it gets worse or causes further damages.

How to find problems in a cracked radiator yourself: step by step

How to find problems in a cracked radiator

If you are on the hunt for potential problems with your radiator, then there are a few steps that will help to narrow down which one it might be.

  1. Check all fittings and pipes: if these have any cracks or holes in them then they should not be used until they have been repaired. This is how water can leak out of your radiator system when this happens so make sure to take care of it as soon as possible before further damage occurs.
  2. Locate where the problem is coming from: If you notice that only certain parts of your unit has cracks while others remain intact then you know what part needs repair work done thanks to its location in relation to other elements of the cooling system.
  3. Spot signs of water leaks: a radiator with cracks can cause water to leak out, so if there are any wet spots on the floor then this is likely where your problem started from.

It is important for your radiator to be checked regularly if you want it to last.

How to fix cracked plastic radiators step by step

How to fix cracked plastic radiators

If you have noticed that one of your fittings or pipes has developed problems and needs repair work done, then here’s how to do it. First take off all traces of heat insulation before using epoxy glue as an adhesive for replacement parts when fixing cracked plastics and make sure not to touch anything until everything dries! Then, you can use a putty knife to remove any old or loose parts and clean the area, using denatured alcohol on a rag to soak up all grease.

Step by step instruction:

  1. Remove All Remaining Heat Insulation
  2. Use Epoxy Glue as an Adhesive
  3. Clean Area with Denatured Alcohol On Rag
  4. Use Putty Knife to Remove Old or Loose Parts and Clean
  5. Let Dry Completely Before Using Heat Source Again!

What glue is suitable for repairing a cracked plastic radiator

Epoxy is a good adhesive for repairing a cracked plastic radiator.
It has the advantage of being waterproof, strong and easy to use. This ensures that it can’t leak out between the cracks in your radiator and onto other surfaces below. It’s important that you always read the instructions carefully before starting.

What glue is suitable for repairing a cracked plastic radiator

The two parts epoxy are mixed together thoroughly until a thick cream forms, then applied to both sides of crack or hole in the plastic radiator with enough space on each side so they don’t overlap when dried . You need to make sure you cover any metal clips as well – these will corrode if left exposed while drying . To speed up this process some people recommend using an electric heater but be aware that doing so may increase chances of cracking nearby joints which have not been clamped.

The use of silicon sealant for repairing radiator cracks can also be effective if done correctly, but it does take longer for the sealant to dry completely before water can leak through again. It may also require periodic maintenance or replacement every year due to the eventual breakdown of rubber seals from continuous exposure.

How to fix cracked plastic radiator with epoxy: full instruction

How to fix cracked plastic radiator with epoxy

  1. First step is to clean the radiator. Pour water over it and use a scrubbing brush to remove any dirt or rust stains that may be sitting on top of the surface, then rinse off with clean water.
  2. Next, use a damp cloth to wipe off any excess water.
  3. Apply epoxy to the radiator in small sections at a time and let it dry for about 15 minutes before applying another coat of epoxy over top. Work your way all around the exterior surface of the plastic radiator until you have covered every inch with epoxy. Be sure not to put too much pressure on or scratch up against the plastic when pushing out air bubbles that may form. Wait an additional 24 hours after you’ve applied one final layer before putting back into place.
  4. To protect from future damage caused by accidents or wear, apply vinyl sheeting overtop as well.

Best epoxy for repairing a cracked plastic radiator

The top best product [hide]

J-B Weld 2120 Radiator and Plastic Repair Kit


J-B Weld 2120 Radiator and Plastic Repair Kit
No need to call a mechanic! One of life's "just-in-case" items, our J-B weld Radiator and plastic repair kit will patch up any punctures in your radiator or your various plumbing. The adhesive is made tough for metal surfaces like radiators. Easily fix holes up to 3/8". Fits anywhere and never out of date - be prepared for anything with the all-purpose J-B Weld Kit!
Pros
affordable price
easy to use
last long
fast set up
Cons
can get hot and difficult to handle

buy on Amazon

Versachem 90214 Plastic Tank and Radiator Repair Kit


Versachem 90214 Plastic Tank and Radiator Repair Kit
Simple, fast and effective! Versachem has a variety of kits that can help you fix your leaks in no time. The Gas Tank Repair Kit is ideal for fixing pinholes, rust-outs, hairline cracks and holes up to 1/2" in diameter. It includes 18 grams of plastic reinforcement material made from ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene resin (UHMWPE). Simply mix the two liquids included to form an elastomeric sealant with color indicating when it will set. The mixture forms a liquid rubber which creates an integral bond once cured. Rather than emptying or welding your tank, all you need is this kit!
Pros
effective
fast bonding
easy to use
Cons
not for all types of plastic

buy on Amazon

Super Glue Pro Seal N62020 Instant Gas Tank and Radiator Repair


Super Glue Pro Seal N62020 Instant Gas Tank and Radiator Repair
Close That Leak! What could be worse than a faulty radiator or leaky gas tank? Not much, right? Well it is not something you want to leave unattended. Gas tanks and radiators have many important functions when they work correctly like sealing leaks that exhaust the fuel used for your car. Meanwhile, Super glue instant sealant helps keep them from leaking even more by filling in their cracks so that there are interruptions of the joints which may lead to leakage if left alone. Nowadays people might think this wonder product requires welding because it fills up those little holes and makes sure your engine will last another few years down the road!
Pros
fast bonding
simple to use
Cons
some says it doesn't stick

buy on Amazon

Blue Magic 6022K QuikSteel Metal Tank Repair Kit


Blue Magic 6022K QuikSteel Metal Tank Repair Kit
Don't let a leaky tank send you to the auto shop. Have everything you need with CarGo Metal Repair Kit. To make your fix fast and permanent, this repair kit includes: sealant, foam injector, drill bit, wire brush and sandpaper pack. Includes step by step instructions in English/Spanish/French not just for how to use it but also how to assess what went wrong so that it doesn't happen again!
Pros
fix fast and permanent
NSF certified
instructions in 3 languages
Cons
need to work fast as it sets up quickly

buy on Amazon

FAQs

Can I use radiator epoxy?

Yes, radiator epoxy is a high-strength adhesive that can be used to repair cracked plastic radiators.

Can I use this type of glue on the whole radiator?

No you cannot; it would not work for repairing or spot welding cracks. Epoxy only works when applied in small sections where there are no other plastics nearby.

Can I use a blow dryer or heat gun to fix my plastic radiator?

You should never try this method as it can permanently damage the radiator.

What if I spot weld with glue instead of using adhesive tape?

This technique might work for some plastics but not all types; you would need to test on an inconspicuous part of the car first before making any changes that could potentially ruin your vehicle's engine.

Final thoughts

Repairing a plastic radiator with epoxy is not an easy task. One needs to have patience and time, as well as some level of skill in order to successfully complete this job without causing more problems than they solved.

Add comment

About GlueFaq.com

GlueFAQ is your personal assistant in questions:

  • • Which glue to choose?
  • • How to glue different surfaces?
  • • How to use glue safely?
  • etc.

We will try to give an answer to any of your questions related to glue.