I went out to the car yesterday morning and saw Lake Erie underneath. I snooped around some and saw that it wasn't any of my hoses, but that my ElCheapo radiator I bought 2 years ago had sprung a leak. I had it installed at a shop and came with a lifetime warranty, but I cannot find the paperwork for it, so the warranty cannot be honored. Since I've never done a radiator before, is there anything I need to watch for when replacing a radiator? Are there any special tools?

Lemme know, as I'm not looking forward to replacing it this weekend.

 

Get on ebay they have brand new radiators with lifetime warranty for $88. It shouldn't be too hard to take out.

 

I don't have the time to wait for an ebay transaction, no matter how much I'd like to. If I were doing an ebay, I'd get a fluidyne.

Since I can't wait, I have to get one locally. The cheapest I've found is $100. I know I get what I pay for, but that's all I can afford.

 

Do it redneck style... get some duct tape.

 

There isn't really much to be aware of, you could always replace the tranny line inlet and outlet (in the lower portion of the radiator if you have an auto) with new O-rings, gives a better seal that way. Oh and make sure you put the connections to the fans on the right way. I seen goof balls put it on backwards, but in imports the plug usually fits only one way. Remember to also bleed the system of air using that union bolt atop one of the lines. Since you will have everything disconnected, I would also replace the thermostate (prevent maintenance) near the water pump housing.

 

Thermostat was replaced with timing belt/water pump/distributor o-rings at the local Honda dealership as a maintenance item.

 

He showed you.

 

A good idea, however. Thank you for the suggestion.