Why Radiators Go Bad and How and When to Recore

Your vehicle's radiator won't last forever. Eventually, you will need to decide whether you should replace, recore, or repair it. In many cases, a repair or recore is more practical. For some classic models, a recore may be the only option. Discover some things to know about why radiators go bad and why a recore may be the most viable option.

Why Radiator Cores Go Bad
Your radiator core consists of tubes that circulate coolant. Fins exist between the tubes to dissipate heat into the atmosphere as coolant moves through the tubes. The coolant then passes back to the engine. If any part of the process malfunctions, your car could overheat. Below is a list of common reasons why radiator cores go bad.

Rust
Over time, coolant, water, salts, and humidity will cause parts of your radiator to rust or corrode. You can have external rust or internal rust, or corrosion. External rust is often not a problem, at least for a long time. However, internal rust could result in clogs.

Old Age
Radiators get old and deteriorate over time. However, you can control age damage with proper maintenance. The radiator's construction is also a major factor in how fast it ages.

Cracks and Leaks
Cracks and leaks in the tubing are a major cause of radiator failure. Unfortunately, cracks in the middle of the tubing are often unrepairable.

Punctures and Dents
Punctures and dents from accidents and debris can wreck your radiator. Even if the fins are the only parts affected, your radiator is not usually functional with a large hole in its middle.

Faulty Construction
Some radiators have poor construction that could come apart from age or vibration. If the solders or epoxies that hold the unit together fail, then your radiator could start to come apart. Much of the time, you won't notice this problem until multiple points break apart or begin to leak.

When to Recore Your Radiator
You can recore most radiators unless they have significant damage to the entire radiator. In those situations, recoring may not be practical. Replacement may be a better option for those situations if you have a newer car that you plan to keep long-term. However, many older or custom cars often cannot get a new radiator for their vehicle as easily as a newer one. The only practical alternative in these cases is a recore.

You should recore your radiator if you have significant issues with your radiator. For example, recore your radiator if you have the following problems:

• Multiple severe leaks
• A large number of damaged fins
• Several blockages

When to Repair Instead of Recore
However, you may only need repair if your radiator only has minor issues. One example of a minor issue is a leak at a solder point. Many older brass and copper radiators have this issue. Unfortunately, repairs of this type usually don't last very long. In the end, you will likely need a recore.

How the Mechanic Recores a Radiator
Recores are not complicated but do require precision work. In most cases, the mechanic removes the old core from the header and brackets. A new, clean core is constructed to specifically fit your existing headers. Your headers may also need some work before the mechanic assembles the new core. In the end, the recored radiator should work like a new radiator.

Kell Radiator Service can rebuild many types of radiators, including aluminum radiators. Whether you have a classic car or a vintage tractor, we can help. We will examine your radiator and see whether a recore or replacement is the best option in your case. We can even upgrade your core if you like. An upgraded core often has more cooling capacity than the original one. Give us a call or visit us to have your radiator checked out.