Behr radiator leak

[Michael S2]

Where do the main radiators usually leak from? I've read about failures of radiators before, but is it usually the cores/bleed screw/other ?

Mine is leaking from the top plastic where it meets the core. Core looks to be in decent condition. Recently had it out to replace coolant pipes so maybe i damaged it putting it back in. (i was careful though, so i find this an unlikely cause)

Its only a small leak when it gets hot. Is Behr still the recommended replacement part or is it worthwhile to an all alloy upgrade?

Photo taken when cold but you can see the coolant marks.

[bluequattro]

I ve two s2 radiators if you need a 2nd hand one to get you back on the road

[jade]

Where do the main radiators usually leak from? I've read about failures of radiators before, but is it usually the cores/bleed screw/other ?

Mine is leaking from the top plastic where it meets the core. Core looks to be in decent condition. Recently had it out to replace coolant pipes so maybe i damaged it putting it back in. (i was careful though, so i find this an unlikely cause)

Its only a small leak when it gets hot. Is Behr still the recommended replacement part or is it worthwhile to an all alloy upgrade?

Photo taken when cold but you can see the coolant marks.

Try and firm up the crimping and see if that works

[bertman]

It is possible to totally un-crimp the top and remove the plastic top.remove all the crud and clean up the sealing gasket and then apply some suitable sealant.
That is what I did on mine and is still good 2 years later.Just be careful when loosening the crimps.Did mine up by knocking them all round with a narrow bronze drift to avoid damage

[Michael S2]

Thanks. I'll have a look and see if i can tighten the crimping. I'm still using the car just now and keeping an eye on levels.

[rynaqui]

Are S2 radiators really such a weak point?

I'm on a Nissens one, 2 years so far no problems..hope I haven't jinxed it

[johne]

Yes, they are. The Behr original ones crack at the top as the plastic ages. I'd suggest none will see 20.

John

[s2driveruk]

yep although mine appears water tight (Behr) I'm aware its been on the car for the 13 odd years I have had the car and it feels like it is time to refresh it as the cooling system on the car is worked very hard on these, more so when you have deleted the aux rad too which I did about 10years back.

[Michael S2]

Went with a new Behr rad.

Audi UK price £475

[Nuvo]

Is that what you paid?

[Michael S2]

Is that what you paid?

£159 delivered for exactly the same unit and it was in stock unlike Audi.

[Nuvo]

You had me worried for a sec.

[s2driveruk]

£475 WTF is that pricing all about.

Where did you get the new unit from btw?

[K Simmonds]

You can get them for around that money on German eBay, as well as the 10 valve version more suited to cars without an Aux Rad.

[Michael S2]

Audi prices are just stupid, they do nothing to help keep classic cars on the road.

GSF have them, don't bother with their website, just phone them.