Expansion tank pipe

[Oddly Godly]

The small pipe from the expansion tank to the radiator on my 2.8 has a small leak where it joins the radiator. I know it's a weak spot where it joins and wonder what would be the best way to remove it. Its held on by some sort of crimp. I am hoping to replace the pipe and fit with a jubilee clip if the radiator is OK.

 

[hard top]

That looks like a messed up jubilee clip to me, I could be wrong though ?

Personally I would first try to get a screwdriver under it and pry it open.

 

[the Nefyn cat]

There's a more than even chance that messing around with the clip will result in a much larger leak and the little spigot in the radiator will come out completely. Go on, ask me how I know.You may be better off finding a replacement rad, or at least checking for one before attempting to repair the one you've got. These 20-something year old plastic things have a tendency to dismantle themselves without being provoked by having something sharp and pointy digging at them. Just another of the benefits of older cars, the need to buy it presents every now and again.

 

[Oddly Godly]

Yes that's what's worrying me it may break and make things worse. I will probably try to get it off with the least amount of possible damage and keep my fingers crossed.

 

[mwpe]

I alwys remove those by carefully cutting with a Dremel, the use a jubilee clip as you suggest.

 

[Oddly Godly]

I have ordered some tiny cutting discs for my cordless drill. I will try to get the hose off without damaging the radiator, but if it's knackered anyway I would rather find out outside my house and not on the M1

 

[PHILIP BAXTER]

Hi @Oddly Godly, how did you get on removing the pipe? I have a similar issue, cheers Phil

 

[Oddly Godly]

I haven't done it yet. I've been putting it off as the leak seems quite small and I am worried I will break the pipe where it joins the radiator. Basically I've bought the small cutting discs to cut the connector but have wimped out. If it gets worse I will bite the bullet. It must only be a tiny leak as I do about 10 thousand miles a year and I hardly ever needs topping up.

 

[colb]

Cutting it off with a Dremel will be the safest method for removal. If you try forcing it open with a screwdriver blade the plastic will break for sure. Replace with a good quality stainless jubilee clip.
The hose may well need replacing if its degraded at the end don't think you will be able to trim it back to refit it.