I reported in an earlier thread that I had fixed a coolant leak by replacing the top radiator hose. That lasted all of a few days and now I have coolant dripping under the nose again. After some inspection, it appears that the top of the radiator just under the top hose connection is cracked.

Where I need help is in determining what that part is made of. It is black, but I thought it was aluminum as a magnet does not stick. However, I am wondering if it might actually be plastic (yikes!). Does anyone know?

I have a friend who could easily weld it if it is aluminum, but doubt that works with plastic (maybe RTV?). Or do I give it up and buy a new radiator?

Crack is in the brightly lit portion of the picture just above the hose clamp. All suggestions appreciated.

 

The radiator tanks are plastic as they are on many current vehicles. They are not repairable.

 

Thanks test point. After closer scrutiny I realized both sides of the unit are indeed plastic. Didn't realize that was common. Guess I'm looking at a replacement then.

I believe the XK8 uses the female TOC type vs. the XKR with the male. Do I have that right?

 

Has anybody out there used radiator.com? Prices look really good compared to the usual suspects.

 

Dont go for just a simple online quote they need info on u,

 

I went thru several threads on how to remove the radiator including the Jag procedure in the JTIS. Feel pretty OK with my ability to pull this off, except for the transmission line. Obviously some fluid will be lost in this process regardless of how careful (lucky?) I may be.

My question to anyone who has done this is how critical is it to replace the lost transmission fluid if it is a small amount? Said another way, how do I avoid going thru the nasty process of refilling the transmission level. It doesn't look like it is as simple as taking out the plug and putting the same amount back in.

Any help or guidance here would be very much appreciated.