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XJ Radiator Question

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Old Jun 13, 2024 | 01:14 PM
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Default XJ Radiator Question

Hey y’all! Newish XJ owner frequent forum browser. Just replaced (less than 50 miles ago) my old leaky radiator with a new Koyo unit, Flowkooler water pump, thermostat, etc. etc., unfortunately it looks like the new radiator has decided to start puking coolant after running for a couple minutes.

It looks like it leaks from this pictured bolt, as the cap, overflow line, transmission lines, and lower hose are all dry. Does this bolt see coolant/could it be a failure point?
Has anyone experienced any issues with this combination of parts or did I get a dud?

Would be a bummer but any input is appreciated! Apologies for the not so great pictures!
Thanks!



Last edited by s14gio; Jun 13, 2024 at 01:17 PM.
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Old Jun 15, 2024 | 04:53 AM
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I am unfamiliar with any radiator "bolt" (but I could be wrong)

The only threaded opening is a drain bung, which may vary in location

If it is a thread leaking, I would remove the "bolt", wrap it with plumbers sealing tape, and reinstall

The leak can come from the joint between the side tanks and and matrix, which is hard to spot

I find by far the best way is a UV torch, it shows up the green coolant brilliantly
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Old Jun 16, 2024 | 04:47 PM
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Bolt, what bolt? afaik, there are none.

I thought the drain was in the back of the tank, but as it's aftermarket, maybe not.

Like the UV torch trick - except I didn't know there was such a thing - & my, long-life, antifreeze is red (well, pink, once diluted).
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Old Jun 16, 2024 | 05:14 PM
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Drain for these is on the passenger side of the tank, should see a wing nut like plug just above the passenger bumper bracket on the unibody.

That bolt I believe is part of the radiator "frame" what holds the core With the plastic caps. Shouldn't actually enter the radiator itself - just the bits around it.

if the leak is not obvious coming from elsewhere like the filler neck or overflow tube and then resting down there then I would suspect potential pressur leakage from the plastic cap
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Old Jun 16, 2024 | 05:39 PM
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Originally Posted by UKXJ
Bolt, what bolt? afaik, there are none.

I thought the drain was in the back of the tank, but as it's aftermarket, maybe not.

Like the UV torch trick - except I didn't know there was such a thing - & my, long-life, antifreeze is red (well, pink, once diluted).
They are for A/C leaks, coolant, and s few other things, which I wont mention hehe ****nose what else they work on?...maybe red ?

mine cost about $20 on Ebay, paid for itself 1st use, high split in side tank of rad, otherwise invisible
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Old Jul 11, 2024 | 06:57 PM
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Default Thanks Yall!

Thanks gang! I was able to get it figured out, came down to a strong lack of sleep haha. Thank you all fore the responses. I really appreciate it (and sorry for bumping an older thread)
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