Hole in Radiator

[Steve (NC)]

I have a 53 Jubilee with a hole in the seam at the top of the radiator. At first it was just a tiny stream and tractor worked fine. Yesterday it turned into a geiser of steam and tractor began sputtering. Thought it was going to die out. I am not sure what to do. Should I just order a new radiator or get it repaired at a radiator shop? Also while I have the radiator out should I check/change anything else?
Please keep in mind I am not a mechanic, just a tinker"er. I appreciate all of the knowledge on this board.
-Steve (NC)

 

[Anonymous-0]

if you can find a radiator shop near you they can fix it up for you, prolly hit ya for 40 dollars and paint it up nice and black for you much cheaper than a new one.

 

[jimNCal]

You can have THAT split repaired at a good Radiator shop for a quarter of what it'd cost to get a used radiator (of unknown condition) or even more for a(foreign)repop.

 

[Dean]

Steve:

I agree with the earlier posters. Take your radiator to a good radiator shop for a thorough clean and repair. The OEM radiators are much better than just about any of the aftermarket ones.

Be sure to install new hood side pads if yours are missing. Install new mounting pads and bolts also.

Dean

 

[Steve (NC)]

Is there anything I shoud look for in the water pump or thermostat? Should I get a pump repair kit just to be safe? When the radiator was geisering the temp gauge was pegged at 250 degrees.
Thanks for the replies. The repair shop is looking like a good solution so far.
Thanks,
Steve

 

[jimNCal]

Repair/replace the radiator first and run the tractor thru it's paces BEFORE your put the hood back on.

IF it appears that the water pump needs replaced, swap it out. If you comdemn your water pump, buy a new/rebuilt one. Don't bother with doing anything to it other just swapping it out. Too much of a PITA for very little savings/gain.

While you're there, seriously consider replacing your hoses and definitely replace the thermostat.

 

[Dean]

Steve:

Removing your radiator presents an ideal opportunity to service other parts of your tractor cooling system.

It will be a snap to replace the water pump, thermostat and both radiator hoses while the radiator is at the shop. Doing so should cost less than $100 and will provide a bit of insurance and maybe a bit better sleep. Replacing these parts is quite a bit more difficult with the radiator and hood in place.

Purchase a 160 degree thermostat if the supplier asks.

When finished, fill the cooling system with a 50%/50% mix of undiluted (not "ready to use") permanent anti freexe and distilled water. One gallon of each will be enough.

Dean