radiator repaint

[n/a]

Several years ago I had my radiator re-cored.  The shop did a great job in terms of performance.  However, they did not repaint it properly or at all.  I now notice some green oxidation along the seam between the core and the upper "tank."  Could knowledgable listers suggest how to deal with this?  Is there a special primer to use?  Thanks,
Don
Ohio
71 280sl

[George Davis]

Don, could it be leaking there?  Antifreeze leaves a green residue, too.

I don't think rad shops use a primer when they repaint a radiator.  Probably any old solvent ("oil") based paint would work after a little wirebrushing to clean it up.

George Davis
'69 280 SL Euro manual

[Douglas]

I've used oven paint from a spray can with good results on the re-cored radiator of another Mercedes I used to own. It's made to tolerate high temperatures. Use it liberally, so buy at least 3 cans.

Douglas Kim
New York, NY
280 SL #018260

[graphic66]

Eastwood Company sells radiator paint that works good. I painted my radiator tank and it has held up good and looks nice. Ialso touched up the top of my radiator and it worked good.

[n/a]

Don't see any leakage.  It appears to be copper or brass green oxidation.  I wasn't sure if radiator shops use acid flux that needs to be somehow cleaned off before painting.  I'd like to do the job correctly.
Thanks,
Don

quote:Originally posted by George Davis

Don, could it be leaking there?  Antifreeze leaves a green residue, too.

I don't think rad shops use a primer when they repaint a radiator.  Probably any old solvent ("oil") based paint would work after a little wirebrushing to clean it up.

George Davis
'69 280 SL Euro manual

[George Davis]

Don,

I'm glad it's not leaking.  I think an acid flux is used, at least it was years ago when I watched as a radiator was reassembled.  A scrub with baking soda paste might be worthwhile.

George Davis
'69 280 SL Euro manual

[113gray]

I had an old MB radiator recored too. The green in my case was due to a definite leak & resulted from a reaction with the underlying brass, not green antifreeze, much as seawater or weather exposure results in a green patina on this metal. Mine was painted by the shop & continues to look OK. I have been warned, however, not to apply too thick a paint layer or too many layers as this will interfere w/ heat transfer.  -JP-