As an integral
part of the cooling system, the radiator protects
your generator or vehicle from damage caused by overheating.
Every time your generator or vehicle is used, heat
is produced and can have a disastrous effect over
time, which is why Pankey's recommends a cooling system
inspection about once every two years. As leading
radiator experts for nearly sixty years, we have vast
proficiency in recognizing cooling system problems,
from clogged radiator cores to inoperable engine fans.
If you suspect
any of the following radiator failure problems, please
contact Pankey's at 510-581-6804.
| Blown Tank-to-Header Seam |
An indication that the radiator has been subjected
to extreme pressures resulting from exhaust leaking
into the cooling system. |
| Cracked Plastic Tanks |
High stress in the radiator can cause premature
plastic-tank failure. |
| Electrolysis - (External) |
Stray electrical current can cause an electrochemical
reaction that will produce voids in radiator tubes. |
| Electrolysis - (Internal) |
Stray electrical current can cause excessive
corrosion of metal components. |
| Fan Damage |
A minor collision or a failed water pump can
result in radiator damage. |
| Fin Bond Failure |
A loss of solder bond between fins and tubes.
Fins are loose in core causing loss of heat transfer
and reducing radiator strength. |
| Fin Deterioration |
A chemical deterioration of the radiator fins
most often caused by road salt or seawater. |
| Internal Deposits |
Rust and leak inhibitors can form solids that
collect in the radiator cooling system and restrict
flow. |
| Leaky Inlet/Outlet Fitting |
Leaks in the radiator inlet/outlet area can
be caused by fatigue or solder-joint corrosion. |
| Leaky Oil Cooler |
- Coolant shows traces of oil. Transmission
or engine damage can result from the mixing of
coolant with transmission fluid or engine |
| Leaky Tank-to-Header Seam |
Failure of the solder joint results in coolant
loss. |
| Loose Side Piece |
Can lead to flexing of the core and radiator-tube
failure. |
| Over Pressurization |
Excessive pressure in the radiator caused by
defective pressure cap or engine-exhaust leak
can destroy the radiator. |
| Soldier Bloom |
Solder corrosion caused by degradation of rust
and leak inhibitors in antifreeze. Tube-to-header
joints are weakened, and corrosion can restrict
coolant flow. |
| Steam Erosion |
Steam can break down the plastic tank which
will produce thinning and ultimately holes in
the plastic tank. Frequently, white deposits |
| Tube-to-Header Leaks |
Failure of the radiator solder joint on this
radiator's header and tubes, results in coolant
loss. |
Please keep in mind this is only
a guide* and should not be used to diagnose any problem
yourself.
*This radiator failure chart is courtesy
of Modine Radiator, and Radiator Info.
