Replacing your own radiator will not only save you about $250, but gives you some good one-on-one time with your vehicle!
1) Buy a radiator.. You can get them from your dealer or local auto part store, I bought one online for about $175 including shipping.
2) Unbolt everything holding your radiator in. Out loose bolts in a container, and be careful not to drop any into your engine, thhis causes crying and cursing..
3) You will probably have to unbolt your fan from the belt assembly and remove your battery.
4) Remove all hoses attached to the radiator.. Be careful ESPECIALLY if you know there is still fluid in the radiator as it will EXPLODE out of the radiator as you remove the main hoses.
5) Get a good grip and rip everything out.
7) Attach lower hoses.. You may need after market clamps as your new radiator may have larger or smalller hose ports
8) Bolt the radiator down and move in the fan assembly and plastic guard, reattaching the fan to the pulley asembly.
9) Reattach upper hoses making sure they are clamped tight.. Buy after market clamps if you have to!
10) Bolt radiator to the fan assembly, making sure the fan spins unobstructed.
11) Fill with fluid and you are done!
* This project took about 2 hours including a trip to the auto parts store for some extra hose and clamps. The new unit was not identical to the original so I had to cut some hose and replace short hose with longer.. I had to do some other small items of rigging but completed the job in a reasonable time with everyday tools.. And the best part is, so can you!
1 comment:
I don't know... knowing me I would ruin it!
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