Replace vs repair aluminum radiator

[MIGHTY 8]

Hello,

Small drip on a 4 year old after market radiator. Recommend repair or replace. About 60/70 to repair estimate goes
Thanks!

[TX82FIAT]

Are they going to drain and clean the inside of the radiator before patching or welding. More detail is needed on what repair they will do and how they will do it for the $60/$70 repair. A new radiator will cost about $250 plus time to install and new coolant. Very unfortunate to have a small drip inside of four years on a new radiator. If you have clearly defined where the leak is and have good access to it, I might drain the system, possibly lightly sand, clean the area very well with alcohol and apply some JB marine weld. Not an ideal solution but I have found welding aluminum to be difficult, there are these aluminum rods that supposedly make the process easier.