73 electra radiator petcock issues

[73sled]

So I was tightening up my petcock after draining my system and it snapped out of the radiator, with the metal seat it screws into, leaving a nice 3/4 inch hole where the petcock used to be. I sanded the inside of the hole and the surface of the metal seating of the petcock and applied JB Weld. Pushed it back into place and currently I'm going to wait overnight for it to cure. Is this fix just a temporary fix, a not so good fix, or am I good to go. Please advise.

[raycow]

I think that bushing should be soldered back in for long-term security.

Ray

[73sled]

Raycow, I applied the JB Weld last night. I'm going to head out and see how its holding. Since I have already moved forward with the JB Weld whats a good plan now.

[raycow]

You have two choices.

1. Solder the bushing in now.
2. Leave it alone till it blows and then solder it back in.

If you choose (2), I strongly recommend that you tie the petcock to the radiator support with a piece of wire so you can find it when you need to.

Ray

[73sled]

Just got off work,has half water half antifreeze (green) in it. It was JB Welded 24 hours ago. Drove it 30 miles, all freeway, with no problems, doing 80 the whole way. No leaks, ran great. will do the wiring up petcock. How long you estimate I have with JB Weld fix ?

[raycow]

How long you estimate I have with JB Weld fix ?

To be honest, there is really no way to tell. What happens is that repeated heating and cooling cycles will eventually break the bond loose.

Ray