Volvo RWD 120-130 Forum

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Radiator with pin hole size hole. 120-130

I noticed one near the top of the radiator. Can it be mended where it is or do I have to take it out and have a whole thing done to it? How long will it last before it starts to grow into a big hole.
Is there a chance that I could patch it with solder, after sanding down the area?
Thanks.








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Radiator with pin hole size hole. 120-130

And what do you suppose did that?

You are not going to like my advice. Have it out and properly rodded out/repaired. Under $100. If it needs to be re-cored expect another $150 to $200.

Why go to all that trouble???

Do you want to be stranded or have someone borrow the car and puke the motor?

Honestly, if one pin-hole has shown up, what do you suppose the odds are that it was the only one developing?

You pays yer money and takes yer chances.

Mike!
--
Mike!








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Radiator with pin hole size hole. 120-130

Had a rock put a dime size hole in mine a few years ago. I got some putty goop from the local auto store and squished it in per the directions. Much less hassle than welding something so fragile, no removal needed, not the prettiest to look at however. Keep some in all the cars now as I don't want to limp home with a trail of coolant with frequent refills if another truck flings a big rock through the grill.
Lasted a year and half until I replaced the radiator for other issues.
-Erik








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Radiator with pin hole size hole. 120-130

Can you be a bit more specific as to exactly where said hole is?

You can just solder it up, but you've got to be very careful.. The whole radiator is held together with solder already, and if you get the wrong areas too hot, you can melt the original solder...effectively ruining the whole thing.

But if its right on top and you can clearly see the hole, you should be able to fix it in the car. Might be a good idea to drain some of the coolant. If it is full up, steam out the hole will hinder the soldering operation.
--
-Matt '70 145s, '65 1800s, '66 122s wagon, others inc. '53 XK120 FHC








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Radiator with pin hole size hole. 120-130

These should have an all-brass radiator. A solder or brazing repair should be very straightforward. You could do it yourself if you are handy with a torch or a large soldering iron.
--
Rob Bareiss, New London CT ::: '87 244DL/M47- 230K, 88 744GLE- 220K, 82 245T-181K Also responsible for the care and feeding of: 88 745GLE, 231K, 87 244DL, 239K, 94 855GLT 189K








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Radiator with pin hole size hole. 120-130

Have repaired a ´79 244 radiator with a propane torch for ski waxing and some regular solder. Was still OK 5 years and 60 k miles later. Did no clean-up or sanding, just plain heat and solder. Good luck!







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