All,I have an old steam radiator that leaks water between heat cycles. The leak is coming from the joint between two sections of the radiator. Is this something that can be easily fixed. I am willing to tackle pretty much any home repair. I was thinking that all I need to do is to loosen the long nuts/bolts that hold the radiator together, seperate the two sections in question, clean the joint, add plumbers putty and put back together.For some reason this sounds a lot easier that it will be. Am I thinking correctly, or should I bite the bullet and buy a new steam radiator. As an FYI, the radiatior is roughly 90 years old and otherwise in good shape.ThanksGreg

 

Well, plumber's putty isn't a good application here.

This 90-year-old radiator's sections were joined with some kind of gasket material. I'm sure there are modern products that would be better than the original.

BUT: after any leaking, the sections' gasket faces will likely be eroded, cut, or corroded. Plus, the through-bolts and nuts are likely frozen. My vote would be to replace the radiator.

As a short-term fix, you could try tightening the through-bolts. If they won't move, then there is your answer.
Doug

 

Thanks Doug

Last night I removed the radiator and turned it on its side. Unfortunately it is much worse than I expected, there were about 6 pin sized rust holes and a few more areas that looked like they were ready to break through. Oh well, looks like its time for a new radiator.

Would you know of a great place to order new steam radiators. Any of the big box stores?

Thanks
Greg

 

For an original replacement rad, you could try "old school" plumbing supply places. (we have a place here in Toronto that is in a turn of the century building and has lots of hardware from the same era still in their inventory).

Junkyards often stockpile them, so you may be able to source them there as well.

Terry