Radiator leak?

Hi,

If the section where the leak is located is metal, it usually can be soldered to stop the leak. They do make additives that are to stop leaks and often times they work, but some can cause more trouble than you already have.

If possible, take a picture of where the leak is located and upload it for me to see. If it is where the tanks and core are crimped, chances are the radiator will need to be replaced.

I attached a pic below showing a product that I have used in the past. Although this isn't a permanent fix, it usually will repair a leak (unless the leak is excessive) for an extended period of time

What I don't in any way recommend is a stop-leak product that is a powdered aluminum. Such products can cause blockages in the heater core and other areas.

Let me know what I can do to help. Keep in mind, if the leak is excessive, the radiator should be professionally soldered or replaced.

Take care and let me know if you have questions or what I can do to help.

Joe

See pic below.

Hi,

Chances are the radiator needs to be replaced. Also, if you do choose to do that, flush the system It appears there is a lot of rust mixed with the coolant.

On the other hand, the bars leak isn't expensive. It may take care of the problem.

Let me know.

Joe

Hi,

I looked up the part numbers and they are different, so they are in some way different. Here is an interesting thing I found. See pic 1 below. Based on that ad, the radiator should work. Also, that is one of the lowest prices I've seen on a new radiator.

Based on my manual, in some way they are different. According to the ad below, the 2004 radiator with a 3.9L should work. Just make sure the 2004 has an automatic transmission because the radiator has a transmission cooler built into it. Some vehicles with a manual transmission won't have that as an option.

Let me know how I can help.

Take care,

Joe

Hi,

I'm not sure why that didn't go through, but I'll try again. Let me know if you get the picture. Note: I did a google search for a 2000 Mustang 3.8L and went to shopping.

Check it out.

Joe.

See pic below.

Hi,

It would be a good idea to flush the system, and I would be happy to help. As far as flushing it, follow the directions in this link:.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/coolant-flush-and-refill-all-cars

Next, here is a link that explains in general how a radiator is replaced. You can use this to help guide you through the process.

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

Next, I attached the directions specific to this vehicle for replacing the radiator. Even though they are specific, at some points I feel they are vague. If you are not sure of something, let me know.

One last thought. Once you have everything put back together and are ready to add coolant to the radiator, you must open a bleeder vent. The last picture below shows its location.

Open that and slowly add coolant until it comes out of the bleeder in a solid stream (no air left in system). Then, close the bleeder, confirm the radiator is full, and fill the overflow reservoir to the cold mark.

Once that is done, the vent is closed tight and the radiator cap is installed, start the engine and turn the heater on high. Allow the engine to idle. As the engine warms up, you will start to feel heat being provided by the heater and the temperature gauge should slowly go up to operating temperature. If there is no heat after a while or the temperature gauge doesn't move, turn the engine off and allow it to cool. Recheck the coolant level once the engine is cold.

Let me know if this helps.

Take care,

joe

See pics below.

Hi,

As far as the housing is concerned, make sure both the surface on the engine and the one on the housing are clean and dry, free of oils and any old gasket. Make sure the thermostat is properly centered so it doesn't interfere with the seal.

Tighten the housing evenly back and forth. If you have already done these things, check to make sure nothing is cracked or warped. Use a straight edge to make sure the housing is flat.

Here is a link you may find helpful:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/replace-thermostat

Let me know.

Joe