Pontiac Fiero 1988 Service Manual page 360

ENGINE COOLING 81-11
REPAIR METHODS
There are several methods that can be used to
repair the radiator core, but the hot melt adhesive
method has been found to be the most simple and
effective.
The kit contains adhesive sticks, cotton swabs,
wire brush and primer. The adhesive stick is reusable,
has an indefinite shelf life, and is waste-free. The
sticks must be stored in a sealed container to keep
them dry (Figure 13).
Figure 13 Hot Melt Adhesive Repair Kit
SPECIAL PREPARATION
Cooling Fin R e m o v e !
For damaged areas that are between the cooling
fins, it may be necessary to remove some of the fins.
Do not remove more fins than necessary. Usually
6mm (1/4") beyond the leak or damage area is enough
to make an effective repair. (Figure 14)
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Figure 14 Fins Removed from Damaged Area
TUBE BLOCKING
If a tube is severely damaged, it can be blocked
off. (Figure 15)
Figure 15 Tube Blocking
N O T I C E :
DO NOT BLOCK OFF MORE THAN
TWO TUBES IN A RADIATOR. BLOCKING
OFF MORE THAN TWO TUBES WILL
REDUCE THE COOLING CAPABILITY OF
THE SYSTEM.
The tube should be cut off 6mm (1/4") from the
header and pinched shut before it is cleaned and
sealed. (See General Core Sealing.)
HEADER REPAIR
If the header or a tube near the header requires a
repair, the side tank does not have to be removed. A
damp cloth can be placed against the side tank where
the repair has to be made (Figure 16). The side tank
can also be submerged in a tank of water up to the
header (Figure 17).
N O T I C E :
One of these procedures has to be used
when repairs are made on or near the header, to
prevent damage to the tank or gasket.
H20008-6B
Figure 16 Using Wet Cloth on Side Tank