Engine Coolant/Radiator

[Ken & Cindy Lorenz]

We are presently having our radiator replaced at the Freightliner Dealer in Las Vegas. While sand blasting and powdercoating a few of the parts that hold the radiator to the chassis, we have found the large steel water line from the motor to the radiator was badly rusted. When cleaning, holes developed from the rust. I cannot find where to buy a new one, so brazing and powdercoating is my only option.
Occasionally inspecting this water line would be a good idea if you live in the East, with the salt on the roads.
Ken & Cindy Lorenz
2005 Alpine 36 FDDS

[EngineerMike]

Ken- Are you saying the corrosion was all exterior?

Could you replace it with straight sections of reinforced radiator hose coupled w/short sections of muffler pipe @ bends?

[Ken & Cindy Lorenz]

Hi Mike,
The pipe was rusted on the outside. I had it sandblasted to find all the pin holes from the rust. I did not want to cut it apart to add pieces and lose the original shape. So, I braised all the bad spots and tested pipe for leaks by filling it with gasoline. After leaks were completely sealed I took it have it powdercoated inside and out. I plan to replace the pipe with a new one made out of stainless at a custom muffler shop.