Hi guys. I just replaced my valve covers and gaskets. 5 minutes into my test drive after finishing, the top plastic part of my radiator busts. Anyone know if this was caused by something or just a coincidence. Thanks.

 

Coincidence unfortunately, the plastic/metal crimp seams on factory radiators are a weak spot on practically every vehicle.

However it might not be the radiator's fault, you should pressure test your radiator cap to make sure it blows off pressure like it should. It may have failed and the weakest link for something rupturing due to overpressure ended up being the radiator itself.

Also, be sure to pressure test the entire system once you have a new radiator installed.

Was it overheating at all?

 

It did get pretty hot but I just let it roll in neutral I wasn't pushing it too hard. Lucky I wasn't far from home. Pressure test doesn't sound bad I was told maybe since the valve cover gaskets were replaced now it's holding more crank pressure which then stressed the "weakest link". Also has anyone bought a radiator from rockauto lol it says the one for manual is like $200 crazy.

 

You are looking at the mishimoto and upgraded aluminum ones then? The stock ones are like $80 on rock auto. Don't the manual car ones just run plugs in the trans cooler lines?

 

Complete bullshit since the system is actually under VACUUM lol. Not to mention they're completely isolated systems. Either way it's a straightforward fix.