Re: 164L Coolant Leak

["John Wiltshire" <John.Wiltshire@domain.elided>]

Paul,

If you have a coolant leak at the thermostat cover, and tightening hasn't
fixed it, you probably have some corrosion of the thermostat cover that is
stopping the hose from sealing.  It could also be that if the joint has
been leaking, there is just a build-up of coolant residue on the joint.

Before installing a new hose, clean this off with steel wool, soft wire
brush or a fine file.  Get it down to clean metal, but whatever method you
use, be very careful that the surface is smooth and even, and don't scratch
or score it.  After cleaning, if you find that the thermostat cover is
badly pitted, it may need replacement.

If you have a clean fitting, and a new hose and clamp, you will not need
any sealant.  One trick that I use is to get some rubber grease (water
based, and used for assembling brake and suspension rubber parts).  If you
can't get this, glycerine will do, but don't use any mineral based
lubricant.  Smear a little around the inside of the hose before sliding it
on to the fitting.  Smear a little on the outside of the hose where the
clamp will go.  This will then prevent any pinching of the hose when you
tighten the clamp and so will give an excellent seal.  Note that you only
need a tiny smear - not a big dollop of the stuff.

Hope this helps!

Regards,
John Wiltshire
Sydney Australia



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