Leak @ Radiator Cap

[SanAnEliseMan]

Found my first mechanical issue. . .

When I came back from a drive today I popped the hood as I normally do just to see whats going on under there. . . I guess I have been waiting for something to happen . Today I noticed that I had a leak around the radiator cap and that it was leaking pretty steadily. Has anyone else had this issue? I am going to try tightening the cap tomorrow, but it seemed pretty tight so I think it may need to be replaced. I just hope this isnt a bigger issue, but I havent seen anything on here like this so I was wondering if anyone else had a similar experience. Any input would be appreciated. . . thanks!

[baltobernie]

With the engine cold, I'd try twisting the cap clockwise to make sure its seated. If so, I'd then remove it to check the condition of the gasket and determine if there's any debris between it and the radiator neck preventing a good seal.

If you're certain that the leak is from the cap/neck joint, you're in luck, as caps are pretty cheap. Get one from the usual catalog sources, not a local parts store, as the Fiat uses a metric pressure, not English. Its not a big deal, and I'd use an American cap before walking home, but you probably need something else from Bayless, Bruce, etc. anyway!

[SanAnEliseMan]

So I cleaned off the cap and drove it again last night with no problems. . . the radiator was full also so I think the leak only started recently. Anyway thanks and I'll keep you updated if it messes up again.