Radiator & Oil Cooler Fencing

[Stangra]

I'm installing an oil cooler and fencing everything in, I have a close gap between oil cooler and radiator and am considering using this backer rod as a seal between:

https://www.lowes.com/pd/M-D-20-ft-x-3-8-in-Gray-Backer-Rod-Polyethylene-Window-Weatherstrip/1085965

It should work great where I'm sealing the fencing to bumper/grille, but I have doubts about how well this stuff will hold up to the temps of a hot oil cooler, any thoughts? Anyone know of a better purpose-build product?

 

[Dave_W]

I looked into this a while back. There are basically 2 categories of backer rod - ones for ambient temperature sealants (e.g., latex caulk) and able to stand up to 150-200F, and ones specifically made for "hot pour" sealants (e.g., tar) that can hold up to around 400F. You want a "hot pour" backer rod for sealing around the radiator. Not sure if it's carried in the big box stores, maybe you can ask at the pro/contractor desk. Or check your local masonry supply store if you have one.

 

[Stangra]

I looked into this a while back. There are basically 2 categories of backer rod - ones for ambient temperature sealants (e.g., latex caulk) and able to stand up to 150-200F, and ones specifically made for "hot pour" sealants (e.g., tar) that can hold up to around 400F. You want a "hot pour" backer rod for sealing around the radiator. Not sure if it's carried in the big box stores, maybe you can ask at the pro/contractor desk. Or check your local masonry supply store if you have one.

Well I learned something new today, Thanks!
Did you use this stuff on your car? How did It work out?

 

[Grant 302]

I think you’d be better off using something like the insulation for hot water piping. Could be used to cover edges and usually can be found with an adhesive that could be used for attachment. But the high temp backer rod should work fine.

 

[Dave_W]

Haven't needed to do it to my car, just did a bit of research. I autocross the Boss, so cooling isn't an issue with the short runs. I've tracked my "backup" cars - Escort GT, Fiesta ST, Miatas - that I don't care as much about messing up. Learned that back in the 90's when I saw a guy with a brand-new car roll it; fortunately he had a rollbar in it but it caved in the A-pillar and wiped off both front fenders.

 

[Fabman]

I used sticky back EPDM foam strip. So far so good.

McMaster-Carr

McMaster-Carr is the complete source for your plant with over 595,000 products. 98% of products ordered ship from stock and deliver same or next day.

www.mcmaster.com

I use this stuff all the time in industrial applications.

 

[Stangra]

I used sticky back EPDM foam strip. So far so good.

McMaster-Carr

McMaster-Carr is the complete source for your plant with over 595,000 products. 98% of products ordered ship from stock and deliver same or next day.

www.mcmaster.com

Perfect! Just ordered. Thanks!

 

[GTP]

I used sticky back EPDM foam strip. So far so good.

McMaster-Carr

McMaster-Carr is the complete source for your plant with over 595,000 products. 98% of products ordered ship from stock and deliver same or next day.

www.mcmaster.com

I use this stuff all the time in industrial applications.
View attachment 66261

And the stickum doesn't loosen when applied directly to the hot cooler?

 

[Fabman]

And the stickum doesn't loosen when applied directly to the hot cooler?

It’s sandwiched between the cooler and radiator so it can’t go anywhere. It’s industrial grade material so it’s very high quality.
I had the radiator out over the winter and it’s still firmly attached.
This is the second racing season on this setup and it’s hanging in nicely.

 

[GTP]

So far so good.

I had some of this gasket lying around, so I heated a soldering iron to 350F and then held the gasket and its stickum against the iron. No smoke, and no melting!

I had to see for myself.