Novice Changing Radiator On 1992 Carina E 1.6

[Rangor]

Hi,

I've got a leak in my radiator for the second time in 18 months. The first time it happened i got a garage to fix it with rad seal. As its now gone again, do you think i should try radseal again, or bite the bullet and get a new radiator?

If you recommend a new radiator, do you have any tips on buying one and fitting it?

cheers

P.S. Just been to have another look at the rad and tried filling it up. As i poured water in, it started ****** out again. Is a hole thats big enough for a stream of water to pour out of too big for radweld to fix?

[clarkey76]

Hi,

new rads will cost a lot i got a second hand one plus a drivers door for 35 pounds rad was almost brand new rad weld is a waste of time it all so gunks up your system changing

a rad is easy 2 bolts at top to big pipe clips and the connecter for fan dont forget the anti freeze

[Hampshire Carina E]

Hi,

I would definitely go for the replacement. Have you considered a recore where you get your radiator out and have it repaired with a new radiator in the existing frame? Usually there is a local trader that offers that service. I did this previously on a Metro and all was fine.

With regard to the Carina, I had mine done at my local garage in Feb 07, cost £135 all in. The radiator itself was £91 at that time. Didn't attempt it myself as it was winter; cold, dark and wet and I needed the car done prompt.

Max

[Rangor]

Cheers for your thoughts.

@ Clarkey - where did you find your secondhand rad? From a scrap yard or somewhere online?

@hampshire - Yep, i'm going to get a replacement. £135 seems a good price. I'm in kent and the local garage's quote was over £200 (£180 for part, £45 labour). I found a couple of companies online (ukcarcooling and Aaron radiators) that stock what i need. Prices are between £60-80. Not sure why there is £20 difference as the parts have the same spec.

I don't have much car maintainance experience but i'm going to try changing the rad myself this weekend.

[clarkey76]

Cheers for your thoughts.

@ Clarkey - where did you find your secondhand rad? From a scrap yard or somewhere online?

@hampshire - Yep, i'm going to get a replacement. £135 seems a good price. I'm in kent and the local garage's quote was over £200 (£180 for part, £45 labour). I found a couple of companies online (ukcarcooling and Aaron radiators) that stock what i need. Prices are between £60-80. Not sure why there is £20 difference as the parts have the same spec.

I don't have much car maintainance experience but i'm going to try changing the rad myself this weekend.

hi i have a great dad who found it was a bloke who bought it for the bonnet and wheels other wise he was scrapping it nice guy bout 150 mile out of ipswich