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Leaky radiator

HI Fellow Wallies,
I have a rad that's leaking slowly, but enough to dampen the carpet (see pics). It must be condensate leaking out because the rad was cold when I took the photo. Can anybody describe to me how to stop the leak. I'm not sure what to apply and where.
Thanks,
Mark

Comments

  • Abracadabra
    Abracadabra Member Posts: 1,948
    Did you try tightening the nut? Jiggle the radiator while tightening. Don't crank down on it too much.. it's brass.
  • Sailah
    Sailah Member Posts: 826
    If it's like our valves, the tailpiece and body are matched compression fittings. The seal happens metal to metal, the nut just tightens the tapers together so putting dope on it does nothing.
    I've never had to fix one but if I did I would remove the valve and clean the surfaces with a scotchbrite pad and retighten.

    photo 20151116_084752_zpsrxbqbf1j.jpg
    Peter Owens
    SteamIQ
    KC_Jones
  • Fred
    Fred Member Posts: 8,542
    When I look at your second picture, it looks like that nut is cross threaded onto that valve. Is that the case or just the way the picture is taken? Something doesn't look quite right there.
  • JUGHNE
    JUGHNE Member Posts: 11,042
    edited November 2015
    Good eye Fred, I concur. Actually looks like it could be another case of newer valve installed with an old non matched rad spud left in place. Everything was painted except the valve body which is suspicious.

    I guess I would try to tighten the nut a little, but be prepared to change the valve and install the new spud that comes with it.
  • STEAM DOCTOR
    STEAM DOCTOR Member Posts: 1,954
    Radiator looks lower than valve. Might need to put something under radiator legs.
  • Mark_125
    Mark_125 Member Posts: 56
    Thanks to all for your suggestions, it looks like the winner was 'jiggle the rad while tightening' - that seems to have done the trick.

    -Mark
  • Abracadabra
    Abracadabra Member Posts: 1,948
    \o/ :)

    I was considering posting a "jiggle" gif, but not sure how appropriate that would be ;)
  • Steamhead
    Steamhead Member Posts: 16,796

    \o/ :)

    I was considering posting a "jiggle" gif, but not sure how appropriate that would be ;)

    :D:D:D:D:D
    All Steamed Up, Inc.
    Towson, MD, USA
    Steam, Vapor & Hot-Water Heating Specialists
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