Radiator leak stopped with stop leak

[BLASTER]

Having recently discovered a slight leak on the radiator of my 1.9 TDI, I initially thought I would have to replace the rad, on the advise of a local independent VW specialist who I had originally asked to quote me on a replacement rad @ £230 all in supply, fit, coolant etc, on inspection they told me that although the rad was corroded (very common in this model passat) that the leak could be cured if this stop leak was added to the cooling system along with the new coolant, this I agreed to do as the technician told me that the leak would be halted for up to a year and the cost was minimal, I know the rad will need replacing in time, I just wondered what your thoughts might be on my decision to have the stop leak added as I asked about possible problems clogging up channels through the block but was told that there was nothing to worry about ?? Your thoughts please….

[dib]

I have run my 2001 100bhp tdi pd for the last 30000miles with Barrs Leaks which slowed the loss of coolant to 1/2 litre between services with no problems. I will change the rad and water pump along with belts at its next service. Despite what has been written about this course of action in previous threads this stuff is designed to stop a leak when it is in contact with air, if it is not in contact with air it remains in suspension in the coolant so should not block any coolant channels. I am prepared for this point of view to be shot down in flames by those much more experienced than me, but in my experience it works.

[chris494rep]

My dads tdi 130 had a radiator leak and took it to a radiator specialist (Rickets Swansea) and they charged £120 inc fitting! (I think it was around this, but a lot less than that price) Im sure there must be a rad specialist near you?

[paulthefox]

i was losing water from the rad on drivers side down by front tyre bought some holts rad weld and this has cured the problem but probably have to replace the rad some time in the future

paul