ALT-2 How to Change a Radiator
Changing a car radiator is well within the scope of the average DIY mechanic. The major problem that most people come up against is rusted bolts, so spend a little time soaking the relevant bolts using a can of release oil. That little bit of preparation will help you no end.
It is considered good practice to remove the negative battery terminal before working on the radiator. The principle is that there is no danger from accidentally shorting the battery, or damaging electrical components when removing the radiator. Before you do this, check you have the car security alarm and radio codes to hand to re-programme the.
Don’t drain the cooling system if the engine is hot, as the water will be hot too, and scalding yourself with engine coolant is not a good start to the job. Drain down the coolant system by disconnecting the top and bottom hoses from the radiator.
Remember to place a basin below the radiator to catch the coolant, otherwise your feet may get wet. If your cooling system hasn’t been flushed in a while, you may want to take this opportunity to do so. You can do this by removing the thermostat and flushing the system using a garden hose.
While the radiator is draining, check whether you need to remove any other parts from the car, such as the strengthening bar, or cross member. Removal of these may make access to the radiator easier for you.
Slacken and remove the bolts holding the radiator to the bonnet lock cross member. Check for any bolts at the bottom of the radiator, and then manoeuvre it from its mountings, and out of the car. Be careful that you don’t soak yourself from any coolant left in the radiator.
Just take a minute to compare the old radiator with the new one. Sometimes a manufacturer can change a design to allow the radiator to be used on several different models. As long as the radiator is marked as being for your car model, and the holes line up, you will be fine.
Manoeuvre the radiator into position onto the bottom mounting lugs, or so that you can get a bolt in to hold it in place. You can then refit the other bolts, and tighten them down. Refit the hoses, but take time to check them for any deterioration. It is best to change them now while you have the chance, than have them fail, and possible cause damage to your car’s engine.
Once you have ensured that everything has been tightened up, and any cross members have been replaced, it is time to fill the cooling system. Use fresh coolant following the manufacturers guidelines. Re-attach the negative terminal to the battery post, and then start the engine, and check all the hoses for leaks. Don’t forget to top up the system if necessary, and the last job you will have to do will be to set the codes on your security alarm and the car radio.
