The Ford Barn

The Eclector · 04-24-2017, 10:22 PM

I have a top radiator tube on my '30 Model A that has a persistent leak. Have replaced the hose and used Permatex #2 between the hose and the tube. With the hose removed, the connector tube is dented and a bit out of round which I suspect might be from over zealous tightening of the hose clamp. Is there anything I can do to straighten out the top tube?

Fred S · 04-24-2017, 10:26 PM

I used a exhaust pipe expander from Harbor Freight to make mine round again. Be gentle.

As I expanded it, I tapped on it lightly with the side end of long socket extension.

Mike V. Florida · 04-24-2017, 11:26 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Fred S

I used a exhaust pipe expander from Harbor Freight to make mine round again. Be gentle.

As I expanded it, I tapped on it lightly with the side end of long socket extension.

Best bet.

AL in NY · 04-25-2017, 10:41 AM

I inserted a short piece of exhaust pipe into the radiator top and bottom tubes to strengthen them and make them round again. The exhaust pipe outside diameter needs to match the inside diameter of the radiator tubes. I left them in, so I can tighten the hoses better. No leaks ever.

rocket1 · 04-25-2017, 01:26 PM

Sponsored Links (Register now to hide all advertisements)

Stainless tube would be better if you can get short pieces,try muffler shops,no rust.

04-24-2017, 10:22 PM	#1
The Eclector Junior Member Join Date: Jul 2015 Location: Chicago, IL Posts: 9	Top radiator tube is oval and dented I have a top radiator tube on my '30 Model A that has a persistent leak. Have replaced the hose and used Permatex #2 between the hose and the tube. With the hose removed, the connector tube is dented and a bit out of round which I suspect might be from over zealous tightening of the hose clamp. Is there anything I can do to straighten out the top tube? __________________ Steve A. Wilmette, IL 1930 Ford Model A Speedster 1939 Ford V-8 Deluxe fordor 1946 Chevy 3600 Pickup 1948 Chevy Fleetmaster Sport Coupe with Wood Kit 1950 Studebaker Champion Starlight 1953 Dodge B4B pickup 1963 Chevrolet Corvair Spyder convertible

04-25-2017, 10:41 AM	#4
AL in NY Senior Member Join Date: May 2010 Location: Southern Upstate New York Posts: 1,160	Re: Top radiator tube is oval and dented I inserted a short piece of exhaust pipe into the radiator top and bottom tubes to strengthen them and make them round again. The exhaust pipe outside diameter needs to match the inside diameter of the radiator tubes. I left them in, so I can tighten the hoses better. No leaks ever. __________________ AL in NY

04-25-2017, 01:26 PM	#5
rocket1 Senior Member Join Date: Mar 2014 Location: Midland Park,N.J. Posts: 1,108	Re: Top radiator tube is oval and dented Sponsored Links (Register now to hide all advertisements) Stainless tube would be better if you can get short pieces,try muffler shops,no rust.

04-24-2017, 10:26 PM	#2
Fred S Senior Member Join Date: Nov 2014 Location: Houston, TX Posts: 137	Re: Top radiator tube is oval and dented I used a exhaust pipe expander from Harbor Freight to make mine round again. Be gentle. As I expanded it, I tapped on it lightly with the side end of long socket extension. Last edited by Fred S; 04-24-2017 at 10:38 PM. Reason: More info