A car's cooling system is essential for maintaining the engine at the ideal operating temperature. The most critical part of this system is the radiator, which prevents engines from getting too hot. These days, many vehicles use plastic radiators due to their lightweight structures and low price. What happens when, for instance, a plastic radiator gets a crack? Can it be fixed, or is replacement the only solution? You'll find out how to fix a cracked radiator and avoid similar issues later in this article. A radiator is a vital part of a car's cooling system. To prevent overheating, the coolant circulates through the engine and collects heat before releasing it into the atmosphere. Metal radiators are being replaced with plastic ones in older, non-radiator cars. These radiators are inexpensive, lightweight, and effective. However, plastic radiators have issues. They develop cracks over time due to aging, physical damage, or heat cycles. A common question among car owners is whether the cracks can be repaired or a total replacement is required. What are Plastic Radiators? Plastic radiators are composed of two main parts: the aluminum core and the plastic tanks. The coolant is placed in the plastic tanks and directed by the core, which transfers the heat. Why use plastic for radiators? Lightweight: Plastic radiators decrease the vehicle's overall weight and thus fuel efficiency. Cost-efficiency: Because plastic radiators cost less than metal radiators, they are a cost-effective option for automakers to consider. Durability: Modern engines must accommodate particularly high-temperature changes; plastic radiators are designed to withstand these. Common Causes of Cracks in Plastic Radiators Cracks in plastic radiators usually occur due to: Overheating: The plastic used in the handles can degrade, especially under high temperatures, and this expands its crack. Physical impact: The radiator is vulnerable to minor accidents, debris on the road, or an accidental blow to the car. Aging and wear: Repeated exposure to hot and pressure cycles can also weaken the plastic and, over time, lead to crack formation. Assessing the Damage Identifying the Crack Find damage in the first step of addressing a cracked radiator. Look for these signs: Coolant leaks: Look under the car for coolant leaks. Steam or overheating: A leak in the cooling system shows itself by the steam escaping from the engine bay. Low coolant levels: A radiator leak may cause the coolant reservoir to be low continuously. With a flashlight, check the radiator seams, corners, and areas under pressure. Determining where and how big the crack is helps decide whether or not it can be repaired. Evaluating Repair Viability Not all cracks are solvable. Here's how to evaluate the damage: Repairable cracks: However, small superficial cracks or cracks on noncritical parts of the radiator can be fixed. Non-repairable cracks: In general, a replacement radiator may be needed when there are large cracks, extensive damage, or cracks in areas vital to manufacturing the radiator. However, repairs are not always possible if the core or multiple sections of the radiator are damaged. Methods for Fixing a Crack in a Plastic Radiator DIY Repairs Do-it-yourself methods are effective and economical for small cracks. Using Epoxy or Plastic Weld Cracks in plastic radiators are usually repaired with epoxy resin or plastic weld kits. Steps to Repair with Epoxy: Drain and clean the radiator: Clean the damaged area with a degreaser and drain the coolant. Prepare the surface: The cracked area is sanded to make a smooth surface to glue the epoxy. Apply the epoxy: Apply the epoxy evenly over the crack, as directed, then mix and apply. Allow it to cure: After following the manufacturer's recommended curing time for epoxy, let it dry completely. Plastic Welding: In plastic welding, the crack is joined together using heat. A plastic welding kit is needed to use this method, and it can be a more durable fix than epoxy. Pros: Quick, affordable, and great for minor cracks. Cons: Extensive damage may not last as long. Sealing with Radiator Stop Leak Liquid sealants, like radiator stop leaks, can temporarily fix radiator leaks. They seep into the radiator from the inside and seal the most minor cracks. When to Use: As a temporary remedy for the situation. For minor leaks that don't have structural problems with them. Limitations: Stop-leak products are not a long-term fix for the cooling system and can bypass and clog other parts. Professional Repairs Any DIY that is attempted with the use of this product does not work as expected, and for wider chasms, professional help is needed. Mechanic's Approach: When fixing an issues with plastic radiators, the mechanic calls for a heat gun and a special type of adhesive. It is safer and it holds the material more firmly in place. Cost and Benefits: For as low as $100 to as much as $300, a professional can repair the damage. Rather as a result of professional repair charges being slightly higher, they take your car longer roads hence providing satisfaction. Preventing Future Radiator Damage Preventative maintenance can help avoid radiator cracks and keep your radiator longer. Tips for Maintaining Your Radiator: Monitor coolant levels: Always check and refill the coolant to prevent overheating. Flush the system: Take the radiator flush every 1–2 years to cleanse the debris and contaminants. Inspect for wear: Look regularly for signs of aging, such as discoloration, brittleness, or leaks. Drive carefully: Don't put a ton of stress on the engine, for instance, constantly idling or going hard on the engine. When Replacement is Necessary Sometimes, a cracked radiator cannot be fixed; in that case, it's best to get a new one. What to Look for in a New Radiator: The cracks are too big or are in unsafe places. There are many cracks or a lot of damage to the structure. The leak still happens after repairs. How to Choose a New Radiator: Choose OEM or aftermarket radiators that are of good quality and fit your car's needs. The replacement cost, including labor, is between $200 and $600. Even though it costs more upfront, replacing the radiator is the only way to fix radiator problems in the long run. Conclusion Can a crack in a plastic car radiator be fixed? Epoxy, plastic welding, or sealants are usually used to repair minor cracks. However, larger or structural cracks may need replacement or expert repair.
Radiator tanks are fundamental components that keep an automobile moving. Minor damage to this component can stop your vehicle, which shows how essential an ordinary-looking radiator tank is. Some users often assume the choice regarding plastic radiator tanks could be bad. The reason is the heat, pressure, and vibrations near the engine, which can cause consistent threats to the plastic tank. However, it can survive longer than an expert can imagine. It does so through its different types that fit various applications. Types of Plastic Radiator Tanks You can find not only one but four types of plastic radiator tanks in the automotive industry. Each type has a specific advantage over the others. Some have more customizability and lightweight bodies, and some have better durability and higher resistance to wear and tear. Each type meets the specific requirements of automobile users. • Polyamide radiator tanks • Polypropylene radiator tanks • Fiberglass radiator tanks • Polyethylene terephthalate radiator tanks Why is a Plastic Radiator Tank a Good Choice? Many reasons behind the success of auto radiator plastic tanks that make global users prefer it in certain conditions. These conditions are related to budget limits, flexibility of production, car type, and living conditions. All the reasons below will make things clear for you. 1. Lightweight The first reason your car needs a plastic radiator tank is its lightweight body. This weight factor has a great impact on a car's overall efficiency. The fuel average is affected by the load inside a car. The heavier it gets, the slower it will drive. Therefore, plastic provides a lighter structure than metal. 2. Easy to Repair and Replace You don’t need a mechanic to weld the radiator tank. Unless it is made of metal, you can repair it yourself. You only need epoxy to fill every hole and crack in a plastic radiator tank. Tiny damages can not bother you for long when you have epoxy to repair. Even if it has significant damage, you can replace it with a new, affordable one. 3. Less Expensive Than a Metal Tank Since plastic is cheap, it is less expensive than a metal tank. As a result, replacing the radiator tank is very affordable. However, going for a metallic tank will be more costly than almost all types of plastic tanks. 4. There is No Risk of Corrosion Since water and coolant are filled inside the radiator tank, you can expect the risk of corrosion. However, if the radiator tank is plastic, there will be no such risk. There will also be no risk of corrosion-based cracks and holes. 5. Customizable in Any Shape Another major advantage of plastic radiator tanks is customization. Plastic’s high moldability makes it easily customizable. There will hardly be any kind of automobile whose design can not be compatible with plastic radiator tanks. All it takes is a custom mold, and the results will be available in the form of a custom plastic radiator tank. 6. Limitations of Plastic Radiator Tanks Everything has some limitations, and so do plastic radiator tanks. These limitations make them an insufficient choice for some automobiles and environmental conditions. 7. Less Durable Plastic does not last long in extreme conditions. Since automobiles have engines inside, the heat of the engine and other parts can damage plastic radiator tanks. This extreme condition makes plastic radiator tanks a weak component in some conditions. Therefore, they are a less durable choice than metallic options. 8. Prone to Early Cracks and Holes Many components cause vibrations, which cause problems for surrounding parts unless they are made of durable material. Plastic radiator tanks can not bear extreme conditions of shocks and vibrations for a long time. Because of their short durability, they start having cracks and holes. This is the problem with rubber and plastic components, which is why they are replaced faster than metal components. 9. Can’t Survive Long in Extreme Heat Extreme heat can deform plastic; the same can happen to plastic radiator tanks. However, they are made of heavy-duty plastic like PET, PP, fiberglass, and PA. Even some conditions, like scorching weather and an engine’s overheating, can cause damage. These conditions make it hard for plastic radiator tanks to survive long, unlike metal types. 10. Harsh Coolant Can Cause Wear and Tear Some harsh coolants can damage plastic radiator tanks and cause wear and tear inside them if the concentration is high. Some plastic types have low resistance to highly concentrated coolants. That’s why it could be a problem for automobiles if the plastic tanks are not compatible with the coolant type. 11. Environmental Pollution Lastly, plastic does not decompose, and it takes over 100 years for that to happen. That makes these tanks a problem for the environment. This concern will always be a main highlight unless many discarded plastic tanks are recycled. Conclusion The automobile industry focuses on lightweight components that offer durability and strength. This helps them produce vehicles that give better averages than previous models. Every new model is better than the previous one regarding the components' material quality and weight. Radiator tanks are among those components that are crucial for every automobile. When it comes to plastic, it fulfills most requirements but also leaves some limitations.
READ FULLCars have to be lightweight and efficient for long-term performance. Their speed and power generation require complete support from their engines. Since engines require protection from overheating for continuous movement, radiators do their job to keep the vehicle’s temperature within limits. A radiator is like a safety device that saves drivers from getting stranded with an overheated engine in the middle of their trip. This is how essential radiators are. Since plastic and metal have a certain level of competition in auto parts, people often consider using plastic radiators due to their lower cost. The question that comes to their minds is about the low heat resistance and fragility of the plastic surface against massive shocks. What Are Plastic Radiator Tanks? Aluminum cores and plastic tanks are typically used to make auto radiator plastic tanks. For better thermal conductivity, metal is still used for the core where heat exchange takes place. But the coolant tanks are made from high strength plastic materials such as nylon reinforced plastic. This hybrid construction achieves a balance between performance, cost and weight which is why plastic radiators have become the preference of many car manufacturers over full metal ones. Benefits Of Auto Radiator Plastic Tanks If you look closely, there are different types of radiators that are available in the industry. Some are known for their heavy-duty performance against heat, UV rays, and pressure. It shows that plastic radiators are made from a tough and durable type of plastic. If you still have doubts, here are the pros of choosing plastic radiators for your car. Lightweight Body The first feature that makes plastic radiators better for some drivers is their lightweight bodies. Since the weight factor significantly contributes to a car's performance, plastic radiators are beneficial in this regard. These lightweight radiators hold the water firmly without adding extra weight. The car’s mileage average remains stable because of this benefit. You might think that plastic can’t survive long enough due to its lightweight structure, but it can last for several years. It will help users recover the price in a reasonable amount of time. Low Cost of Production Plastic is cheaper than metal, which makes plastic tanks more affordable. Comparing them to metal radiators shows a significant difference in their prices. Plastic radiators are cheaper due to their low production cost. Hence, they are more affordable and also available everywhere. However, durability is lower than that of metal, but their low cost makes them less expensive in the replacement process. Since plastic has a weakness, which is heat, you can imagine the aftermath. However, hard plastic is used that has long-lasting resistance against mild heat. People who live in cold regions might like plastic radiators because the heat factor will not bother them. Their Repair Kit is Easily Available The repair kit requires a few plastic patches and an epoxy tube. This readily available kit helps users deal with minor holes in the plastic radiator. They don’t have to buy new radiators because of this affordable solution. Repairing radiator tanks is easy because anyone can do it. As compared to metal, you don’t need to weld it. You only need epoxy tubes for radiators to mix and make a solution. Then, apply that solution to the crack or hole in the plastic radiator. Dry that area by leaving it for some hours. Once it dries up, you can drive your car again as usual. Maintenance is Often User-Friendly The same is with maintenance, where you don’t have to do much. Plastic radiators require minimal maintenance. All you have to do is inspect any signs of wear and tear on them. If there are some, you can use epoxy to repair them. If the situation is dire, replace your radiator with a new one. It will be an affordable and swift repair as compared to other types of radiator maintenance. No Need to Worry About Corrosion The biggest advantage plastic radiators have is their anti-corrosion body. Plastic is a natural anti-corrosion material, which is why water and coolant do not cause any problems with it. You will find no rust or corrosion inside the radiator tank. Thus, the coolant remains clean, and the water inside the radiator also remains clear. You will not find a rusty color when you add more water to the radiator. However, some metal parts are still used in plastic radiators, which can cause rusting. The good thing is that you can prevent massive corrosion by choosing a plastic radiator. Low-Cost Replacement The replacement process is as budget-friendly as maintenance. Plastic radiators are cheaper options, which makes their replacement process affordable for most drivers. If you explore the market, you can find many low-cost radiators of good quality. It means you can replace your old radiator at a very low price. Sometimes, it is better to replace the entire radiator than to repair it. It is because of the price difference between plastic and metal radiators. Low-cost replacement is a significant factor that keeps plastic radiators at the top of the priority list for many drivers. Conclusion Besides all these benefits of installing plastic radiators, you will find some challenges with them. These challenges are related to the low resistance of plastic radiators against heat and shocks. Therefore, plastic radiators have much less durability than metal ones. Overall, plastic is a good choice in modern cars that have lightweight features.
READ FULLRadiators are among the most essential components of an automobile. If there were no radiators, drivers wouldn't have been able to drive their vehicles for more than a few minutes. It includes the tanks that help them regulate the temperature to keep the car less heated for long journeys. Find out all about them below. About Radiator Plastic Tanks Automobile radiator tanks carry water and coolant to regulate the engine's temperature. Both metal and plastic types are available in the market, but plastic tanks are also used. They are lightweight radiator tanks that prevent heat dissipation from the radiator. Since modern vehicles are more focused on lightweight bodies and agile performance, plastic tanks are preferred. They do everything a modern automobile needs from them. Types of Radiator Plastic Tanks in the Industry These auto plastic radiator tanks are not always plastic because the heat and pressure can cause damage. To prevent that risk, the auto industry uses plastic, nylon, and fiberglass, depending on a car's condition. Therefore, you can find some types available in the auto industry regarding material type. Nylon/Polyamide (PA) Plastic Tanks PA66 is one of the most used radiator tank materials in the auto industry. The reason is its chemical and heat resistance. Since an engine releases heat around it, all the components have to be heat-resistant. Moreover, coolant is a chemical that can corrode regular plastic. Therefore, PA radiator tanks are chemical and heat resistant. They are made of glass-reinforced nylon, which has a lightweight structure and durability for auto applications. These radiator tanks can last longer than usual plastic types. However, there are some cons to using PA66 radiator tanks. Since nylon absorbs moisture, it can be deformed or mechanically damaged in harsh conditions. Moreover, it is a brittle material, which can lead to cracking or damage from sudden shocks. PA radiator tanks are more expensive than other plastic tanks. Polypropylene (PP) Plastic Tanks Another common type is the PP radiator tank. It is a cost-effective type with enough strength and weight for an automobile. The heat resistance revolves around 90 degrees Celsius, which makes it another good option for radiator tanks. Also, its flexibility makes it an ideal option for many types of automobiles. Besides, it can resist chemicals like radiator coolant for top performance. Its lightweight structure poses no extra weight in the automobile. Fiberglass/Glass-Reinforced Plastic (GRP) Tanks Here is a combination of fiberglass and plastic, which makes these radiator tanks an acceptable option for automobiles. There is a high strength-to-weight ratio in GRP radiator tanks. They last longer than plastic types, making them suitable for modern cars. Even their heat and chemical resistance is higher than usual plastic types. A disadvantage of using them is their brittleness. They can crack under high stress. Polyethylene Terephthalate Tanks The last type, which is rare, is PET. This type of tank is not so common for radiators, but it shows good performance. It is compatible with lots of vehicles because of its chemical and heat resistance. It is also very light in weight. It is more expensive than the PP type, which is probably why it is not very common in the industry. How to Choose the Best Radiator Plastic Tank for an Automobile? When you are about to choose, make sure to follow some guidelines. They will let you decide better for the best performance you seek from plastic radiator tanks. Some Factors to Consider The first thing you should consider is the vehicle type you choose. The car model you drive and its age are the main factors you should consider. Do you drive in a cold region or a hot one? The region matters a lot because the heat resistance level will be the element for which a tank is made. How much do you drive? Your driving frequency will be another consideration. If you drive a lot, it will be better to go for the fiberglass type. Then comes your budget, deciding if you can afford the radiator tank you want. Lastly, if you are willing to purchase plastic tanks for your retail business, you need to decide whether you want OEM quality or aftermarket. A Few Maintenance and Care Tips for Users Unless you do the proper maintenance, your radiator tanks will have problems in the future. You are not only supposed to replace the old one but also prevent future damage. Notice signs that can lead you to detect minor and significant damage in the radiator tank. Learn how to check for cracks and leaks, saving you from substantial loss. Maintenance Tips Here are some maintenance tips that you need to follow to keep things running smoothly. You may notice water stains on the ground under the vehicle, right below the radiator tank. If you notice any water stains, the radiator tank could be leaking. If you notice a low coolant level frequently, that could be a sign that you should have a look at the radiator. If your vehicle gets overheated too early and too frequently, waiting is a problem. Perform a pressure test on your radiator to inspect any leakage in the tank. Use the correct type of coolant that matches your vehicle model and usage level. Flush the contaminated coolant before you refill. The contaminated one will cause further problems for the radiator. Inspect the thermostat and have it repaired or replaced. Conclusion Plastic tanks for radiators are lightweight and resistant to heat and chemicals. Their performance depends on how much you drive. Moreover, how much heat is around the radiator tank matters a lot. Therefore, fiberglass type is also common among plastic tanks. FAQs Are plastic radiator tanks better than metal ones? Both types have pros and cons. Plastic tanks have the advantage over metal tanks in terms of being lightweight, cheap, and less heat dissipating. How long do plastic radiator tanks last? It lasts around 7 to 10 years, depending on usage level. Can I repair a plastic radiator tank if it has cracks? It depends on the crack size. Epoxy is a good option, but heat and coolant can weaken it. What are the signs that my radiator tank needs to be replaced? Discoloration of coolant, leakage under the car, early overeating, and low coolant levels. How can I find a compatible plastic radiator tank for my car? Consult an auto expert by sharing your car's model details and usage level. Do plastic radiator tanks affect engine cooling efficiency? If it has some leaks, it will affect the efficiency. Linghang Technology Offers Plastic Radiator Tanks For Different Vehicle Models Vehicle Model OEM Part Number(s) Inlet/Outlet Size (mm) Hyundai H-100 2.5TDi (2004) 25310-4F210 587.5 x 62 Hyundai Sonata / Kia K5 (2011–2014) 25310-3R550 490.5 x 46.3 Hyundai Elantra (2010–2012) 25310-3X101 / 25310-3X011 407.5 x 46.5 Hyundai Elantra (2016) 25310-F2000 / 25310-F2100 424 x 46.3 Kia K2 25310-1R000 / 25310-1R050 393.5 x 46.5 Suzuki (2017) 21410-5196R 425 x 31 Isuzu D-MAX (2010) 8-98137276-4 679 x 48 Toyota Corolla (2008) 16410-22180 400 x 48
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