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Radiator coolant level sensor “port”…..leaking

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Old 06-19-2024, 04:53 PM
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Default Radiator coolant level sensor “port”…..leaking

I’m over it. Tried 3 new sensors, luckily was able to return each one for a refund.

Any ideas to simply block it off?

Some kind of rubber cap and a clamp maybe.
Old 06-19-2024, 05:56 PM
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As far as I know, the best block-off seems to be the actual sensor (even if it's not actually in use as a "sensor", i.e. not plugged into the wiring harness). I'm shocked that the sensor isn't working in this role. Isn't there an O-ring on the tip? If so, maybe it was an inferior batch of O-rings from that supplier causing each one to leak. I've had similar troubles in the past with dipstick tube O-rings from various brands at various times.

Maybe a different brand (or if you can just find an O-ring of the correct size separately) would work.
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Old 06-19-2024, 06:02 PM
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I tired three different brands. They all had dual o-rings on them.

I guess I could try to find an o-ring kit with a bunch of different rings to try.

Old 06-19-2024, 06:33 PM
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I just ordered an o-ring kit. If that doesn't work I also found every size coolat block off caps that will work. But its nice to keep the level sensor working.
Old 06-20-2024, 08:41 AM
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Can you post a picture? Are you sure its coming from the coolant sensor? (That would be really odd...)

What kind of radiator cap are you running? is it the OEM cap that looks like this?
Old 06-20-2024, 01:10 PM
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Here’s a video.

Attached Files
File Type: mov
IMG_8184.mov (6.99 MB, 7 views)
Old 06-20-2024, 02:27 PM
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just a thought, is the port clean and free of debris or scratches? is it cracked at all?
Old 06-20-2024, 02:51 PM
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Originally Posted by bleepster
just a thought, is the port clean and free of debris or scratches? is it cracked at all?
Just removed the sensor. Port is perfect inside.

But look at the 2nd o-ring. It explains why this o-ring is leaking even though the first o-ring should stop it from leaking especially fully cold under zero pressure.

But the other two sensors also leaked. No way I tweaked all three 2nd o-rings while popping them in. I’ve been R&Ring these sensors for 25 years with zero issues.

Im gonna see if this o-ring kit provides slightly fatter o-rings to put on. If not I’ll cap it off.



Old 06-20-2024, 03:50 PM
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About 10-12 years ago, I had a huge problem getting the dipstick tube (it's the old O-ring style) for my TH350 to stop leaking. I tried several "automotive" O-rings of the proper size, and none of them would stop the leak (they were all from Dorman, sold from various places). I was just about ready to convert to the "top hat" style dipstick seal when I decided to try a completely different non-automotive supplier sold by my local Ace Hardware stores. I saved a picture of the difference between the two, it's obvious why the Dorman one would never seal. Keep in mind, these two O-rings are listed as being *exactly* the same size (in every dimension), but the Ace one is clearly more robust. I did this a decade ago, and the Ace one has never leaked:


Old 06-20-2024, 03:59 PM
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I ordered the o-ring kit from your post above, good idea to try other o-rings.

I'm hoping exactly that, that I can find an o-ring thats just a little fatter.



Originally Posted by RPM WS6
About 10-12 years ago, I had a huge problem getting the dipstick tube (it's the old O-ring style) for my TH350 to stop leaking. I tried several "automotive" O-rings of the proper size, and none of them would stop the leak (they were all from Dorman, sold from various places). I was just about ready to convert to the "top hat" style dipstick seal when I decided to try a completely different non-automotive supplier sold by my local Ace Hardware stores. I saved a picture of the difference between the two, it's obvious why the Dorman one would never seal. Keep in mind, these two O-rings are listed as being *exactly* the same size (in every dimension), but the Ace one is clearly more robust. I did this a decade ago, and the Ace one has never leaked:

Old 06-21-2024, 09:28 AM
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We have seen this before. Check the bung that your sensor goes into and make sure it isn't bent or damaged. I think the bunched-up O-Ring is your problem.

The sensor should go in smoothly with a slight twist. If there is a foreign object or dent in the bung, that ring won't seal.

A larger O-Ring will likely make your problem worse.
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Old 06-21-2024, 10:00 AM
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Originally Posted by wssix99
We have seen this before. Check the bung that your sensor goes into and make sure it isn't bent or damaged. I think the bunched-up O-Ring is your problem.

The sensor should go in smoothly with a slight twist. If there is a foreign object or dent in the bung, that ring won't seal.

A larger O-Ring will likely make your problem worse.
The port is clean, no dents or deformation.

Old 06-22-2024, 06:52 AM
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Then all you need to do is seat that O Ring so it doesn't bunch up un the bung. Slightly twisting the sensor as you press it in is usually enough. You can also use a verry little bit of Super Lube on the rings: https://www.super-lube.com/o-ring-silicone-grease

(If you don't already have Super Lube, you should. It's the best lube for the door hinges and is called for on some other parts. I really like their pen applicator.)
Old 06-24-2024, 11:59 AM
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I put the new, fatter, o-rings on. They fit very tight just like the original o-rings. But off a larger diameter so it’ll absolutely be tighter.

I lubed it with green coolant as I use that type. It took some muscle to get both metal clips to snap over the two metal locking wings.

I topped it off after the t-stat opened two times, then I put the radiator cap on. Let it idle for 20 minutes. No leaks yet.

Ill go drive it now about 40 min round trip where I need to go.

Time will tell.

o-ring is a: 20mm x 2.4mm






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Old 06-24-2024, 12:13 PM
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^ I think this will take care of the problem.
Old 06-24-2024, 02:37 PM
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Originally Posted by RPM WS6
^ I think this will take care of the problem.
Maybe. Drive about an hour. Pulled it into my garage up on the front tire ramps. Went inside and waited about 15-20 minutes for the heat and pressure to build up a little.

Not leaking.

I’ll check it every day fur a week and call it good.

Thanks for the o-ring idea.
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Old 06-26-2024, 03:13 PM
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Gotta love it when things go right, and are simple!! Good stuff...
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