18 replies to this topic

[Miv]

I am thinking of changing my radiator in the spring to an aluminium one with a drain tap, does anybody know what coolant I should change to that would suit an aluminium rad and a standard cast engine ? thanks guys

Edited by Miv, 14 December 2024 - 01:28 PM.

[Penfold13]

I’ve used Prestones coolant in a few cars, claims to be compatible with everything, even other coolants, and I’ve had no issues to date. Reasonably priced and sometimes on sale in Tescos too!

[nicklouse]

May I ask why? Aluminium does not transfer heat as well as copper.

 

oh Pink.

[Blumeanie]

I believe pink is what you need. BUT go online and read a few labels - The typically spell out metal compatibilities. You'll surely find one that suits you.

I cannot recommend a brand as we surely do not have the same ones available locally! But as Penfolds mentions above there are a few that claim close to a universal use...

[Miv]

May I ask why? Aluminium does not transfer heat as well as copper.

oh Pink.

[Miv]

Hi nicklouse
The only reason is that I cant find an original design that has a drain fitted, but all the aluminium ones do seem to have one ?

[Miv]

Thanks for the feedback guys will have a read up on the penfolds product.

[Penfold13]

Thanks for the feedback guys will have a read up on the penfolds product

Prestones’ product, I’m just a happy user with no links! I have Reliants too (4 wheelers…) and other owners for them recommended it and never caused me an issue to date.

[croc7]

Hi nicklouse
The only reason is that I cant find an original design that has a drain fitted, but all the aluminium ones do seem to have one ?

 

Any radiator shop should be able to install a drain pitcock for you.

[Spider]

Hi nicklouse
The only reason is that I cant find an original design that has a drain fitted, but all the aluminium ones do seem to have one ?

 

As Nick has mentioned, Copper is better for heat transfer than aluminum. You can also end up in a world of trouble through electrolysis or electroplating running an aluminum radiator. 

If you'd like a drain plug, they are dead easy to add in.

 

First, clean the spot you'd like to add in the Drain, then tin the area, and cut the hole (I use a small fine tooth hole saw for this);-

 

 

 

Then drop the body of the drain on to that, a little flux, a little heat, some solder;-

 

 

 

Allow to cool, clean, paint, screw in the plug and your done

 

[Miv]

Thanks very much Spider, will go with that option I think, and stick with the new but original rad.
Thanks again.

[Miv]

Thanks for the feedback guys will have a read up on the penfolds product

Prestones’ product, I’m just a happy user with no links! I have Reliants too (4 wheelers…) and other owners for them recommended it and never caused me an issue to date.

[Miv]

Sorry, I meant Prestones, silly me

[Spider]

Thanks very much Spider, will go with that option I think, and stick with the new but original rad.
Thanks again.

 

I make my own brass fitting to solder in, I thread them 1/8" NPT to take a standard radiator drain plug (yes, there were originally fitted).

I don't know if you're in a position to make your own boss ? If not, you could fit something like this;-

 

https://www.carbuild...exphvTuJt7UgVM5

 

and fit an M14 plug to it.

[Miv]

Looks just the job, thanks again spider