Staying Cool: What To Look For When Purchasing A Recycled Car Radiator
If maintained and cared for properly, a car radiator can function effectively for many years, so purchasing a used radiator to replace a damaged or failing radiator in your own car can be a very economically sound choice. However, while the vast majority of recycled car radiators for sale are entirely safe to use, there are definite warning signs you should look out for that can signify that a particular used radiator may not be the one for you.
Has the radiator suffered corrosion?
Checking for signs of corrosion should be your first priority when choosing a recycled radiator, as the moisture and condensation that a radiator generates while in use can cause severe damaged to aged or neglected radiators. Check both external and internal surfaces for corrosion, paying particular attention to components that are routinely exposed to moisture such as cooling vanes and coolant valves. You should also inspect the insides of the coolant feed system, as they can suffer extensive corrosion if the radiator's previous owner used the wrong kind of coolant liquid.
Was the radiator taken from a crashed car?
Obviously purchasing any spare parts taken from a crashed and/or totaled car can be a risky proposition, but that doesn't mean that all radiators taken from crashes are write-offs. Cars that have taken damage to the rear or side sills are likely to have undamaged radiators that are often in excellent condition; cars that have suffered terminal engine failures may also have viable radiators, although you should check closely for damage caused by overheating and leaks. You should also inspect radiators for hairline cracks and other visible damage caused by impact stresses.
Does the radiator leak?
Checking for leaks in a recycled radiator can be challenging, since you are unlikely to see them functioning before you fit them into your own vehicle. However, even a small leak can cause extensive damage over time, so you should check for the following tell-tale signs that the radiator may be leaking or has suffered leak damage in the past:
- Peeling or stripped paint caused by coolant fluid leaking onto exterior surfaces.
- Loose or badly aged coolant hoses, which may spring leaks in the future or signify a poorly executed repair job. Pay particular attention to the hose connectors, which should be tight and have no visible rust or decay.
- Discolouration of internal surfaces caused by sediment infiltrating the radiator through leaks and cracks.
Are the mountings secure?
Even if a radiator hasn't taken direct damage in a crash or other accident, the mountings that are used to attach the radiator to the car's chassis and/or bodywork may have been damaged. Look for cracks or distortion caused by sudden stops and chassis deformation, as these can leave the mountings terminally weakened and increase the risk of your recycled radiator becoming detached during use. You should also check for rust and corrosion, as well as chemical damage caused by antifreeze leaks and other problems.
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