Repairing a leaky surge tank

[HSSS427]

It appears the joint connecting the pipe on the bottom of my surge tank is leaking. Is this just a simple job of running solder over the joint to seal it up, or is it more complex due to the pressure involved? It's not a very big leak, but it does dribble out through what appears to be a pin hole in the joint weld. I believe the tank is made of brass and is painted black. I've stripped away the black paint around the joint. Appreciate any advice and tips!
Thanks!
Scott

[RallySnake]

HSSS,

It's simple if you are a good solderer.

The key is to position the part so gravity will flow the molten solder into the right place. Clean the part very well with wire brushes and sandpaper. Use acid core solder and a torch the correct size so you don't unsolder everything else.

If you want to get fancy, buy the silver solder packaged with a licquid flux at Home Depot. This stuff is expensive, but very easy to use for small jobs.

I have repaired lots of leaks in brass fittings and heater cores this way. Sometimes, it takes a second try but usually not. Good luck.

Paul

[cobred]

When I built my car I glass beaded my tank down to brass and shortened it. Then gave it to a radiator shop where they resoldered all the joints and pressure tested it. I think it cost about 20 bucks. Money well spent, you dont want to take it back off if it still has a leak.

[951mat]

Sounds like you got some good advice above. If you were in a bind for time you might try some JB weld to fill the hole. I know a guy who used it to fill a pinhole in an air intake pipe on a turbo Porsche. That pipe would see +/- 15 lbs of positive boost pressure.

Mat

[DonC]

Had a pin hole in mine as well and just took it to the local radiator shop. The closed up the hole and pressure tested it and repainted the tank for 20.00
DonC