Advice on changing a leaking radiator please - Corolla 1.4 vvti 2004 model.

[mhmh_2006]

Hi, I, just searched the forum and wanted to ask please about changing the radiator on my Corolla 1.4 vvti 2004 hatchback.

There is a slow coolant leak with evidence on back of radiator matrix of red crystals - near bottom corners. (Car regularly serviced and running well; 117K miles; consumes no oil; used Toyota pink antifreeze - maybe 2L over 6 months.)

Would it be adviseable to jack up the car for access?

Should I replace top and bottom hoses/ clips as well as radiator at same time? (Car is on original 17 year old hoses...)

Will I need to reach under edges of the plastic cylinder head cover to get to the some of the coolant hose clips? - Will I need to remove the head cover?

Many thanks.

[oldcodger]

Hi,

There is no need to jack the car up to change the radiator.

To drain it, there is a tap on the bottom  but you would be better to drain the whole system and do a flush before fitting the new radiator and new antifreeze.

You may also find a small tap behind the engine block just above the exhaust cover, but do not force it open, not a good thing to break in that location.

The plastic engine cover is very easy to remove, just 4 10mm nuts and the front plastic cover over the radiator just needs its clips popping out.

You then have to unclip and set back the fan cover and remove the two bolts holding the radiator in place.

As well as Toyotas own Pink antifreeze plenty of other around, we used  Commas G30.

The hoses and Clips could be renewed if you feel they are becoming weak etc.

While doing such work its well worth checking for signs of any leaks around the water pump and replacing the thermostat.

Lots of radiator suppliers but even so we found the one we ordered needed a bit of work to fit as the mountings were slightly larger than the original, so make sure you do a careful dry fit of yours in case you need to return it.

You will probably find a Ytube on doing the above, but its also well detailed in the Haynes service manual