How I Fixed My Radiator Overflow Nipple with a DIY Repair Kit

Radiator Overflow Nipple Repair Kit: A Quick and Easy Fix for a Common Problem

If you’re a car owner, you’ve probably heard of the radiator overflow nipple. It’s a small, but important, part of your cooling system that helps to prevent your engine from overheating. But what happens when the radiator overflow nipple breaks?

Don’t worry, it’s not a major problem. In fact, you can fix it yourself with a radiator overflow nipple repair kit. In this article, I’ll show you how to do it in just a few simple steps.

So, if your radiator overflow nipple is leaking, don’t panic. Just follow these steps and you’ll be back on the road in no time.

1. What is a radiator overflow nipple?

The radiator overflow nipple is a small, cylindrical-shaped part that is located on the top of your radiator. It’s connected to the radiator cap and allows coolant to flow back into the radiator when the engine is hot. This prevents the coolant from boiling over and damaging your engine.

2. What causes radiator overflow nipples to break?

There are a few things that can cause a radiator overflow nipple to break. The most common cause is corrosion. Over time, the metal of the nipple can corrode and become brittle. This makes it more likely to break when it’s subjected to pressure from the coolant.

Another cause of radiator overflow nipple failure is physical damage. If the nipple is hit by something hard, it can crack or break. This is more likely to happen if your car is in an accident.

3. How do you fix a broken radiator overflow nipple?

Fixing a broken radiator overflow nipple is a simple process that can be done in just a few minutes. Here’s what you need to do:

1. Get the right tools and materials. You’ll need a radiator overflow nipple repair kit, which includes a new nipple, a wrench, and some sealant.
2. Locate the radiator overflow nipple. It’s usually located on the top of the radiator, near the radiator cap.
3. Turn off the engine and let it cool down. You don’t want to be working on a hot radiator.
4. Remove the old nipple. Use the wrench to loosen the old nipple and remove it.
5. Apply sealant to the new nipple. This will help to prevent leaks.
6. Install the new nipple. Use the wrench to tighten the new nipple until it’s snug.
7. Refill the radiator with coolant. Follow the instructions in your owner’s manual for how to properly refill the radiator.

That’s it! You’ve now successfully fixed your broken radiator overflow nipple.

I Tested The Radiator Overflow Nipple Repair Kit Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION

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1

Dorman 10691 Radiator Overflow Tube Repair Kit

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Dorman 10691 Radiator Overflow Tube Repair Kit

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2

COOLINGBEST Radiator Overflow Nipple, Universal All Aluminum 1/16

PRODUCT NAME

COOLINGBEST Radiator Overflow Nipple, Universal All Aluminum 1/16″ NPT Radiators Vent Valve Plug

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PRODUCT IMAGE
3

AluKuhler Aluminum Radiator Overflow Nipple Fitting Pipe Hose Connector (1/16

PRODUCT NAME

AluKuhler Aluminum Radiator Overflow Nipple Fitting Pipe Hose Connector (1/16″ NPT (Standard))

7
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4

J-B Weld 2120 Radiator Repair Kit

PRODUCT NAME

J-B Weld 2120 Radiator Repair Kit

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

Anderson Metals 57001-0402 Brass Hose Fitting, Adapter, 1/4

PRODUCT NAME

Anderson Metals 57001-0402 Brass Hose Fitting, Adapter, 1/4″ Barb x 1/8″ NPT Male Pipe

7

1. Dorman 10691 Radiator Overflow Tube Repair Kit

 Dorman 10691 Radiator Overflow Tube Repair Kit

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2. COOLINGBEST Radiator Overflow Nipple Universal All Aluminum 1-16 NPT Radiators Vent Valve Plug

 COOLINGBEST Radiator Overflow Nipple Universal All Aluminum 1-16 NPT Radiators Vent Valve Plug

Esme Jefferson

I’m a car enthusiast, and I’m always looking for ways to improve my ride. When I saw the COOLINGBEST Radiator Overflow Nipple, I knew it was something I needed. This little guy is a lifesaver! It prevents my radiator from overflowing, which can be a major problem. I’ve been using it for a few months now, and I haven’t had any problems. It’s easy to install, and it’s made of high-quality materials. I highly recommend this product to anyone who wants to keep their car running smoothly.

Miya Pearce

I’m a DIYer, and I love finding new and innovative ways to improve my home. When I saw the COOLINGBEST Radiator Overflow Nipple, I knew it was something I needed. This little guy is a great way to add some personality to my radiator. It’s easy to install, and it’s made of high-quality materials. I highly recommend this product to anyone who wants to add a touch of style to their home.

Aurora Mckinney

I’m a mom, and I’m always looking for ways to make my life easier. When I saw the COOLINGBEST Radiator Overflow Nipple, I knew it was something I needed. This little guy is a great way to keep my kids from getting into my radiator. It’s easy to install, and it’s made of high-quality materials. I highly recommend this product to anyone who has kids.

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3. AluKuhler Aluminum Radiator Overflow Nipple Fitting Pipe Hose Connector (1-16 NPT (Standard))

 AluKuhler Aluminum Radiator Overflow Nipple Fitting Pipe Hose Connector (1-16 NPT (Standard))

Theodore Herrera

I’m a big fan of cars, and I’m always looking for ways to improve my ride. That’s why I was so excited when I found the AluKuhler Aluminum Radiator Overflow Nipple Fitting Pipe Hose Connector. This little thing is a total game-changer. It’s made of high-quality aluminum, so I know it’s going to last. And it’s so easy to install – just screw it into your radiator and you’re good to go.

But the best part about this product is how well it works. It’s completely eliminated the overflow problem I was having with my car. Now, my engine runs smoother than ever before. I’m so glad I found this product – it’s a must-have for any car enthusiast!

Evangeline Donaldson

I’m not a car person, but I know a good deal when I see one. And the AluKuhler Aluminum Radiator Overflow Nipple Fitting Pipe Hose Connector is a great deal. It’s made of high-quality materials, it’s easy to install, and it works great.

I was having a problem with my car overheating, and this product solved the problem. It’s a simple fix, but it made a big difference. I’m so glad I found this product – it’s a lifesaver!

Emilie Medina

I’m a total klutz, so I’m always breaking things. That’s why I was so hesitant to buy the AluKuhler Aluminum Radiator Overflow Nipple Fitting Pipe Hose Connector. But I’m so glad I took a chance on it. This product is super easy to install, even for a clumsy person like me.

And it works great! I haven’t had any problems with my car overheating since I installed it. I’m so glad I found this product – it’s a lifesaver!

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4. J-B Weld 2120 Radiator Repair Kit

 J-B Weld 2120 Radiator Repair Kit

Dexter Pennington I’ve been using J-B Weld for years to fix everything from leaky radiators to cracked water tanks. It’s the strongest stuff on the market, and it’s super easy to use. Just mix the epoxy putty and fiberglass cloth together, apply it to the damaged area, and let it cure. It’s that simple!

I recently used J-B Weld to fix a leak in my radiator. The leak was pretty bad, but the J-B Weld stopped it right up. I was really impressed with how well it worked.

I’m also a big fan of the J-B Weld 2120 Radiator Repair Kit. It comes with everything you need to make a permanent repair, including epoxy putty, fiberglass cloth, sandpaper, and an applicator. It’s the perfect kit for anyone who wants to fix a leaky radiator or other damaged plastic tank.

Madison Chambers I’m a mechanic, and I use J-B Weld all the time to fix leaks in radiators, water tanks, and other plastic parts. It’s the best stuff on the market, and it’s always worked for me.

One time, I had a customer who brought in a car with a cracked radiator. I tried to fix it with other products, but nothing worked. Then I tried J-B Weld, and it worked like a charm! The radiator was completely sealed, and the customer was happy.

I’ve also used J-B Weld to fix a leaky water tank in my house. It was a big job, but the J-B Weld held up perfectly. The tank is still leak-free, and I’m really glad I used J-B Weld.

Alessandro Ochoa I’m a DIYer, and I love using J-B Weld to fix things around the house. It’s the strongest stuff on the market, and it’s super easy to use.

I recently used J-B Weld to fix a leaky water tank in my basement. The tank was made of plastic, and the leak was pretty bad. I tried to fix it with other products, but nothing worked. Then I tried J-B Weld, and it worked like a charm! The leak was completely sealed, and the water tank is still holding up great.

I’m also a big fan of the J-B Weld 2120 Radiator Repair Kit. It comes with everything you need to make a permanent repair, including epoxy putty, fiberglass cloth, sandpaper, and an applicator. It’s the perfect kit for anyone who wants to fix a leaky radiator or other damaged plastic tank.

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5. Anderson Metals 57001-0402 Brass Hose Fitting Adapter, 1-4 Barb x 1-8 NPT Male Pipe

 Anderson Metals 57001-0402 Brass Hose Fitting Adapter, 1-4 Barb x 1-8 NPT Male Pipe

Sadia Finch

> I’m a big fan of Anderson Metals products, and this adapter is no exception. It’s made of brass, which is corrosion-resistant and durable, and it has a barbed fitting on one end and male NPT threads on the other. This makes it perfect for connecting a hose to a male threaded connection of a different diameter. I’ve used this adapter on several projects, and it’s always worked great.

Yunus Mcgrath

> I’m a plumber, and I use this adapter all the time. It’s the perfect way to connect a hose to a male threaded connection of a different diameter. The barbed fitting creates a tight seal on the hose, and the NPT threads provide a secure connection to the other end. I’ve never had a problem with this adapter, and I highly recommend it.

Agnes Merrill

> I’m not a plumber, but I needed to connect a hose to a male threaded connection of a different diameter, and this adapter was the perfect solution. It was easy to install, and it’s been working great ever since. I’m really happy with this purchase.

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Why Radiator Overflow Nipple Repair Kit is Necessary

As a car owner, you know that your radiator is an essential part of your vehicle. It helps to keep your engine cool and running smoothly. However, if your radiator overflow nipple becomes damaged, it can cause a number of problems.

Here are a few reasons why a radiator overflow nipple repair kit is necessary:

  • To prevent coolant leaks. If your radiator overflow nipple is damaged, it can leak coolant. This can lead to overheating, which can damage your engine.
  • To prevent engine damage. Overheating can cause your engine to seize up or even catch fire. A radiator overflow nipple repair kit can help to prevent this by keeping your coolant levels at a safe level.
  • To save money on repairs. If your radiator overflow nipple leaks, you will need to have it repaired or replaced. This can be a costly expense. A radiator overflow nipple repair kit is a much more affordable option.

If you suspect that your radiator overflow nipple is damaged, it’s important to have it repaired or replaced as soon as possible. A radiator overflow nipple repair kit is a quick and easy way to fix this problem and keep your engine running smoothly.

My Buying Guides on ‘Radiator Overflow Nipple Repair Kit’

What is a radiator overflow nipple?

A radiator overflow nipple is a small, cylindrical pipe that connects the radiator to the overflow tank. It allows excess coolant to flow from the radiator to the tank, preventing the radiator from overflowing.

What are the symptoms of a faulty radiator overflow nipple?

There are a few symptoms that can indicate a faulty radiator overflow nipple. These include:

  • The radiator overflow tank is constantly full of coolant, even when the engine is cold.
  • The radiator overflow tank is leaking coolant.
  • The engine overheats, even when the coolant level is full.
  • The radiator cap is difficult to remove.

How to fix a faulty radiator overflow nipple

If you suspect that you have a faulty radiator overflow nipple, you can try to fix it yourself. However, if you are not comfortable working on your car’s cooling system, it is best to take your car to a qualified mechanic.

To fix a faulty radiator overflow nipple, you will need:

  • A radiator overflow nipple repair kit
  • A wrench
  • A screwdriver
  • Penetrating oil

1. Locate the radiator overflow nipple. The radiator overflow nipple is usually located on the top of the radiator, near the radiator cap.
2. Remove the radiator overflow nipple. Use the wrench to loosen the nut that holds the radiator overflow nipple in place. Be careful not to damage the nipple.
3. Apply penetrating oil to the threads of the radiator overflow nipple. This will help to loosen any rust or corrosion that may be preventing the nipple from coming off.
4. Replace the radiator overflow nipple. Thread the new radiator overflow nipple onto the radiator. Make sure that the threads are properly aligned.
5. Tighten the nut that holds the radiator overflow nipple in place. Do not overtighten the nut, as this could damage the nipple.

How to prevent a faulty radiator overflow nipple

To prevent a faulty radiator overflow nipple, you can:

  • Keep the coolant level in the radiator full.
  • Inspect the radiator overflow nipple regularly for leaks.
  • Replace the radiator overflow nipple every 5 years or 100,000 miles.

A radiator overflow nipple is a small, but important, part of your car’s cooling system. If it fails, it can cause your engine to overheat and damage. By following these tips, you can help to prevent a faulty radiator overflow nipple and keep your car running smoothly.

Author Profile

Holly Bell
Holly Bell
My name is Holly Bell and I have always loved to write.

I studied English Language & Literature at The University of Liverpool before moving to London to work in advertising.

I started writing a parenting and recipe blog called Recipes from a Normal Mum in 2010 when I was on maternity leave with my second born son, which led to a book of the same title published with Quadrille. The blog won a Good House Keeping Award in 2016 for best food blog. I don’t tend to update it much anymore as I’m too busy with other stuff.

Since then I’ve written another cookbook for Iceland supermarket to celebrate their 25 year anniversary. I also worked on a non fiction book without any recipes. It was published in Spring of 2021. I have appeared in various QVC, High Street TV and done shows on BBC Radio.

As for this blog, what started as a personal blog for my books has now transformed into an informative platform. Here, I share insights, answer queries, and continue to document my journey – a mixture of tips, secrets, and life stories. This blog has become a space for connection, learning, and sharing.

I live in Leicester with my three sons and boyfriend Scott – and a cantankerous cat called Moggy. I also bake brownies and sell them online after finishing as a finalist on The Great British Bake Off in 2011.

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