radiator fix or replacement

[James Schaack]

i have had a coolant loss for some time now and i finally found it leaking from the radiator. the leak is on the cap end, motor side coming through the fins. i never saw the leak because all the fluid was pooling in the lower shroud. my question is this: should i have the radiator fixed ($100-150 local shop) or purchase a new one. i have little knowledge of radiators and long a re-core will last. just want to get the best bang for the buck. if a new radiator is in line, can anyone recommend a good supplier?

thanks,

james

[Dvldog 8793]

Howdy
I have had to replace the radiators in my '89 chev P/U, '95 caprice and my 99 3500. The first time in my 89 I had it rebuilt and ended up replaceing it the next year. Ever since that I've always ponied up for the new one with a good warrenty. Can't help as far as a supplier goes but I would get new if the price doesn't kill you.
especially if you on keeping the rig for any length of time.
Hope this helps
Conley Janssen

[tom.mcinerney]

If the original '93, it's probably on its way out throughout, but the condition all over will give clues{is dented? rigid/shaky? corroded tubes if look inside? was run with dexcool+distilled, or green+tap water?}. May be able to get new core with old tanks...Try search, i think other relevant posts since last summer.

[SHEIDEN9]

this is the way i look at it. The radidator is over ten years old, its got enough corrosion inside to cause the core to leak the tanks cant be far behind i would replace it and do a good flush and refill with coolant+distilled water plus a water wetting agent. Also i would keep an eye out for other leaks especially at the heater hose and core fittings.
just my opinion

[Barry Nave]

I'm still haveing a coolent loss and cant fine the darn thing :confused:
I'll have to CK my rad. Only thing left :rolleyes:
Can't fine no leaks yet it goed down very slow :eek:

[Turbo Al]

I had my 93 rad recored BUT if you want a new one DO NOT GET ONE that is build "off shore" they are complete garbage.
Al

[ucdavis]

Best advice is from a radiator shop that does custom & speed work. Usually the local hot rod guys have a favorite place that is in that line of work cuz they love it (craftsmen). My local favorite does about 40% custom work & knows cooling like nobody I've ever dealt with before. Ask around for which shop that might be.
Absent other advice, I'd say a new one would be a better buy, but I'd still expend the effort to ask the specialist.

[James Schaack]

thanks for all the input guys, i appreciate it!

James

[James Schaack]

well, i think i am going to just replace with a new radiator. the leak is starting to become more severe. can anyone recommend a place to purchase a radiator? should i replace with stock or high capacity? aluminum or steel? again, i don't know much about radiators so any help will be appreciated!!

thanks,

james

[Barry Nave]

Now I'm at :rolleyes:
Coolent Is holding :rolleyes:

[Barry Nave]

My 2C Go for stock Replacement, or Go for the big buck's for I heard it is better.