old rad push nipples

Timco

Are the push nipples in old rads re-usable after rads have been taken apart or are new nipples needed?

Thanks, Tim

john_171

As long as

they're not damaged, go ahead and reuse them. Before pushing the sections back together, coat the push nipples with "form a gasket" (available at your local auto parts store)to make a good seal.

Jamie Hall

eh?

if you do use form a gasket -- or red RTV, also auto supply -- make sure it is very very thin indeed, or you are going to have a heck of a time pulling the sections back together. I usually put a bead of red RTV on the face of the section (having cleaned it -- wire brush -- very thoroughly) just outside the push nipple, and just make sure the nipple and its seat are very clean. Haven't had a problem doing that...

john_171

Never had a problem

with it yet, and I've put quite a few rads together with it; though most any type of sealant would work as well I suppose. I just stick to form a gasket as it's worked for me. Remember, the seal occurs at the push nipple--not the boss outside the nipple. You are right though--the nipple itself and its seat must be clean and without any damage, or the rad will leak!