6 replies to this topic

[1984mini25]

I’ve recently had to drill and helicoil the thermostat threads in the head, as they were completely non-existent while replacing a faulty thermostat that had jammed slightly open. Not good for driving in the early morning or late evenings in winter.

 

I’ve recently noticed however after a 34mile round trip the other day, that there now appears to be a crack in the head on the thread closest the radiator/fan.

 

 

It’s NOT leaking or losing any coolant, but is this going to be a problem or is there some sort of sealing goo I could use on the thread/stud?

 

 

 

[nicklouse]

If it is not leaking I would do nothing.

You have studs and nuts fitted rather then bolts? If yes I would not be too concerned. If bolts then you might need to do something if you need to change the stat. at any other time.

[1984mini25]

At the moment it's not leaking, but I'll keep an eye on it. And yes, as the original blots had completely stripped the threads in the head, hence the helicoils and fitted stud/nuts to save have the same issues with the bolts in the future.

[Spider]

It could be a crack, but also may not be, maybe just a small amount of coolant leakage (until the gasket swelled up). Probably need to have a scratch around there to see if you can feel a crack.

[1984mini25]

It's defiantly a crack as I could feel it and you can see a rusty water trail from about two thirds down, but nothing that's affected the coolant level.

[Spider]

Bummer,,,

 

 

and three Hail Merrys

 

<Edit: it could be repaired, maybe even in situ. Brazing would be an ideal repair option for that>

Edited by Moke Spider, 24 April 2015 - 10:30 PM.

[nicklouse]

True. It will be break through from the helicoiling but will be fine on the seal just a little thin.

Brazing might be fun depending on how well it flows.threads will need (may need) a re cut it the braze does flow well.