Leaking SMIC - weld new tanks on - upgrade?

[vtraudt]

I have 6 leaking RS6 intercooler here (don't ask, every used pair I bought was also leaking).
My 'plumber' says he can cut off the tanks and weld onto new cores.

What is the stock core size? Sources?
What is an upgrade core size? I read 10x9x3.5 is common. Sources for upgrade cores?

[lswing]

Use Google to search "site:rs6.com intercoolers" or the like. There are many options. A handful of companies will repurpose your end tanks and add better cores. Wagner is also an option. I'd just have AMD in WA do it. Apikol and SRM were also doing the upgraded IC's I think.

[SteveKen]

I used these Bell cores:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004AOBHDQ/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I've heard that some have went up one size higher in thickness from these and they're still able to be welded in.

[vtraudt]

I used these Bell cores:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004AOBHDQ/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I've heard that some have went up one size higher in thickness from these and they're still able to be welded in.

Yes, have seen 10x9x3.5 thick mentioned. Not sure how stock 2.5 thick cores can be welded onto 3.0 or 3.5 thick cores, but apparently it can be done.

[vtraudt]

Getting closer. 10X9X3.5
18717

[nene]

I think there was a sale going on recently with Wagners intercoolers. I would say just go for it and upgrade while at it.

[vtraudt]

I think there was a sale going on recently with Wagners intercoolers. I would say just go for it and upgrade while at it.
Wagners on sale are great. But unless they have a 80% off blue Wednesday sale, they are too much dineros for my taste. Maybe they come out with a poor man's stripper version (without the great carbon stuff that does not fit and serves no purpose for example), say for $600 for the pair.

[GreggPDX]

Looks really good! How did the wider cores fit? Any challenges welding them to the tanks?

Also, how is fitment with the existing mounting points? I'm particularly curious how the lower mount point fits since it depends on the specific height of the core.

Finally, what kind of Tig welder do you use? I'm seriously considering investing in one, but they are spendy!

[vtraudt]

Looks really good! How did the wider cores fit? Any challenges welding them to the tanks?
Also, how is fitment with the existing mounting points? I'm particularly curious how the lower mount point fits since it depends on the specific height of the core.
Finally, what kind of Tig welder do you use? I'm seriously considering investing in one, but they are spendy!

I selected the size based on a) input from others that pointed me towards Bell cores of that size b) size/shape of the end takes after they were removed from the old cores
Fitment: TBD (not sure when I can put them on). Will take pics and post/report
TIG: TIG welding take IMO more skill than my MIG ("slam it together") welding. So I left this up to an expert that was recommended to me; have not asked (or care honestly since I will leave ALL my TIG welding to those experts). My trusted (professional) local TIG welder (still running the welded oil cooler bracket I destroyed) had given it a shot to 'seal' an old leaky unit I had, but the leaks are not accessible, so I gave up on TIG seal welding the old units.

I haven't done the cost compilation (and won't count the 4 roundtrips at 100 miles each, and time to source), just one of those stubborn "I won't spend that kind of money" No-Wagner episodes. If I end up in the ballpark that I have set for myself, I may make a cost projection based on qty 10 batch, see if it comes in at a substantial savings over current available options.

I just KNOW (based on 6 out of 6 SMIC leaking) that pretty much any RS6 on stock intercoolers out there is likely leaking to one extend or another.

[vtraudt]

Anyone cut off the end tanks from stock SMIC? Links to photos or tips?

[SteveKen]

. . . I just KNOW (based on 6 out of 6 SMIC leaking) that pretty much any RS6 on stock intercoolers out there is likely leaking to one extend or another.

Amen to this.