Possible Radiator issue?
Thread Starter
Navigator
Joined: Jul 2024
Posts: 9
Likes: 0
From: NH
Possible Radiator issue?
Hey Everyone! Looking for some feedback. I have a 94 C4 Convertible and recently had some work done to it. The tech told me that he did not like the "flow of the coolant" and recommended a new radiator and thermostat. They wanted to charge me $1200 so I told them I would get back to them. I picked up the car and drove it and was running great. I was watching the temp gauge (digital and analog) and they were fine. After driving it for a week with no issues I went out to dinner with a friend and noticed a large amount of coolant leaking out of the radiator. Anyone else have any similar issues? Also, what are your thoughts on replacing the radiator yourself? Thank you in advance!
Drifting
Joined: Sep 2022
Posts: 1,485
Likes: 395
From: Liberty, SC
2023 C4 of the Year Finalist - Unmodified
I would replace the radiator myself and many here would also. What matters is what is your experience level with things such as that and/or how much do you want to take on - what tools do you have, want to buy - do you have a place to have a vehicle out of service for a few days, etc.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Jul 2004
Posts: 6,228
Likes: 698
From: Clifton Park, NY ............Clearwater, FL ... 85 Original Owner
I would replace the radiator myself and many here would also. What matters is what is your experience level with things such as that and/or how much do you want to take on - what tools do you have, want to buy - do you have a place to have a vehicle out of service for a few days, etc.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Jul 2004
Posts: 6,228
Likes: 698
From: Clifton Park, NY ............Clearwater, FL ... 85 Original Owner
Melting Slicks
Joined: May 2003
Posts: 2,078
Likes: 282
From: Dyersburg TN
I just replaced mine and while it was not bad I suggest watching some youtube videos before doing it. That being said, regardless of your skill level you need to investigate and see if you can identify the source. It might be as simple as needing a host clamp tightened. Also in today's world you never know if the tech who wants to sell you a service did not loosen something to motivate you. Go take a look (use flashlight) and report back you you find. Lots of really good Corvette folks (techs) on this site who just want to help and not sell you something.
Drifting
Joined: Sep 2022
Posts: 1,485
Likes: 395
From: Liberty, SC
2023 C4 of the Year Finalist - Unmodified
I'm with ya Cruisin.... but, I wasn't trying to troubleshoot it for them. In a round-about way, they asked if I could change the radiator myself. That was my take on it.
I don't know if it needs it or not. the story doesn't really add up to me - "flow of coolant" doesn't really tell anyone much.
I don't know if it needs it or not. the story doesn't really add up to me - "flow of coolant" doesn't really tell anyone much.
Safety Car
Joined: Mar 2017
Posts: 4,202
Likes: 1,323
From: LeClaire Iowa
If they were just going to replace the radiator with a stock knockoff that is a crazy high price. I would be inclined to not trust them much in the future. Summit has a stock radiator for less that 100 bucks. Dan
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Safety Car
Joined: Jun 2010
Posts: 4,564
Likes: 1,676
Radiator is one of the easier big jobs. Just a pain with the mess of coolant. But removal and replacement is pretty straight forward. I would suggest at minimum also replacing the upper and lower rad hoses. Also, take a look at the champion single core all aluminum. A huge improvement to get rid of the plastic end caps on a factory radiator.
Melting Slicks
Joined: May 2003
Posts: 2,078
Likes: 282
From: Dyersburg TN
unless prevented by budget, any item removed to execute a repair should be considered for replacement if it has any kind of age or wear on it. I always prefer to do it in my shop and not on the side of the road.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Mar 2002
Posts: 2,876
Likes: 764
From: Sligo PA
Radiators are easy. Just drive the car to your local big box store like Walmart, Target, Costco ect. Find the center of the parking lot and locate the large storm drain. Park directly on top of the drain. Then after it cools down pop off the hoses and swap the radiator and thermostat. Simple job and you're done in a couple hours. Best part is no clean up.
Oil changes can be done in the same fashion. 😁
Oil changes can be done in the same fashion. 😁
Drifting
Joined: Aug 2002
Posts: 1,775
Likes: 125
From: Birmingham AL
Radiators are easy. Just drive the car to your local big box store like Walmart, Target, Costco ect. Find the center of the parking lot and locate the large storm drain. Park directly on top of the drain. Then after it cools down pop off the hoses and swap the radiator and thermostat. Simple job and you're done in a couple hours. Best part is no clean up.
Oil changes can be done in the same fashion. 😁
Oil changes can be done in the same fashion. 😁