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Cast Iron baseboard leak

Karl_6
Karl_6 Member Posts: 10
in THE MAIN WALL
I have a leak in a radiator 30 (?) years old. Is there any way to repair it in my home? I am told high temperature silcone cement?


Karl

Comments

  • bruce_21
    bruce_21 Member Posts: 241


    Where is the leak? Between sections? At the valve or return connections? A crack in a section?
  • Karl_6
    Karl_6 Member Posts: 10


    The crack is in the section toward the end. Not at the valve nor vent but not in the middle of the section either. I am going to dremel out a clean spot tonight toi see exactly where it originates--it is somewhat difficult to see the actual crack rather just note the steam and later, water drip. I tried a steel putty (name I forget by this point) but no dice.


    Karl
  • ScottMP
    ScottMP Member Posts: 5,883
    Karl

    MY Opinion for whats its worth

    It can be done but is very difficult and time consuming. Unless you have a radiator that due to size or looks can not be replaced I would opt for buying a replacement.

    Scott

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  • Karl_6
    Karl_6 Member Posts: 10


    Hmmm....grind down the old surface "treatment" (paint)...then what??? I'd like to give it a try.


    Karl
  • Karl_6
    Karl_6 Member Posts: 10
    radiator crack

    Other than a thorough cleaning and grinding down to the bare metal, what is the best to use. I'd really like to see if I can save myself some added expenses..


    Karl
  • bruce_21
    bruce_21 Member Posts: 241


    If you get it real clean PC-7 or J-B Weld, different brands of two part epoxy, might seal it. Worth a try.
  • bob young
    bob young Member Posts: 2,177


    try a can of base hit
  • Al Corelli_2
    Al Corelli_2 Member Posts: 395
    Try This

    Go to a boating store and buy "Marine tex".

    It comes in white or gray.

    EMPTY the baseboard first.

    Prepare the crack as stated before.

    Marine tex is the strongest epoxy product I have ever used.

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  • Bruce Stevens
    Bruce Stevens Member Posts: 133
    Al

    Have you ever used it on radiators I know my mechanic buddy uses it on gas tanks in cars and boats.
  • Karl_6
    Karl_6 Member Posts: 10
    steam radiator leak

    Well, I ground down the area and then cleaned it off with acetone and then applied propoxy 20. It didn't stop the leak but slowed it down considerably. I reground the area and widened the cleaned spot and reapplied the propoxy 20. Now, I fired up the boiler last night and, so far, so good! I'll keep all of you posted as time goes on but I am cautiously hopeful. Thanks all


    Karl
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