Thread: Broken radiator overflow nipple...can the car be driven still?

Hey guys, I was replacing the upper radiator hose and I accidentally broke off the coolant overflow nipple from the radiator. I am going to order a Mishimoto (I am pretty sure I heard something about them making one of those for a P10) to replace this one but I need to know if I can drive the car like 10 mins to work on Wednesday or if I need to bum a ride. Thanks!

EDIT for cameraphone picture:

I wouldn't see a problem with it (I drove my car for a week over 1000 miles with the top tank cracked and a hole in it), it just won't build pressure, and won't cool as efficient (the higher the pressure the less likely water will boil), just make sure it stays full and keep an eye on the temp gauge
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My g/f cadillac has been that way for a year and there has been no problem with it

Yep, you'll be fine. Keep in mind, though, you'll have some coolant weep on hot runs. Nothing damaging, but you may see some spots or drips up-front. The system will still maintain pressure as normal, it will only overflow when it's overpressurized.

Lol... you can drive it if you stop to add coolant every few minutes.

I wouldn't do it though.

Use a epoxy good for plastics, water, heat, stick it back on until your new rad. arrives.

I would buy a threadable nipple, tap that bitch and stick a line on it.

something like this but smaller

http://www.micromatic.com/images/3/300x300/617C.jpg

no way - don't plug it. Coolant expands and needs a place to overflow into.

skcusloa's idea is good. I vote for that.

I wasn't suggesting to plug it, I meant to stick the nipple back on with it, as a temp. fix until the new rad arrives.

my bad.

You'd only need to check the coolant level every time the engine cools down after being shut off. It will maintain pressure in the system throughout driving. A daily check of the coolant level would be more than enough.