ic98

Noticed a coolant leak the other day around the top radiator hose. After removing the top radiator cover I was shocked to find that the radiator has plastic on the ends! The plastic has a small ¼ inch crack so I have to replace the radiator because of that?!? How hard is it to replace the radiator? Anyone have instructions and pictures?

byronhunter

Any good radiator shop can replace just the End Tank on your radiator.

byronhunter

Removal Procedure




Remove the fan shroud. Refer to Fan Shroud Replacement .
Reposition the throttle body heater outlet hose clamp from the radiator using J 38185 .
Remove the throttle body heater outlet hose from the radiator.



Reposition the radiator inlet hose clamp from the water pump using J 38185 .
Remove the radiator inlet hose from the water pump.



Reposition the surge tank inlet hose clamp from the radiator using J 38185 .
Remove the surge tank inlet hose from the radiator.



Remove the connector position assurance lock.
Disconnect the mass air flow sensor electrical connector.



If equipped, remove the automatic transmission oil cooler lines from the radiator.




Important
It is not necessary to disconnect the air conditioning lines from the condenser.


Remove the condenser from the radiator and position it forward.
Remove the radiator from the vehicle.

powderski13

Since you have to replace it, install a Dewitts double core all aluminum radiator. Don't waste your money on a OEM replacement.

pewter99

I installed a Dewitts by myself....just take your time and be careful not to mess up the fins. It is fairly straight forward especially if you are stock ( I am not) so I had a few challenges but once I got it in there, I had to pull it once and do some trimming and then drop it back in. It would be easier if you have a 2nd set of hands but overall not a big deal.

pewter99

its 9 years old...IMO I would replace as opposed to repair at this point.

byronhunter

Now, that's the FACTS!

pewter99

no thats his opinion as well

pewter99

and I agree with you but my thinking is that when you buy something used you never really know what you are getting and while it may be perfect when it was in the car some damage may occur during removal and therefor not be any better than what he has. Also at least buying new he has some warranty coverage.

byronhunter

I certainly agree with you too. But do we always replace everything that is 9 years old? Ideal situtation, "Dewitts Radiator," if he dosn't want to spend that much money, replace just the end tank. Just my opinion.

bobc997615

My radiator had a 1 inch long crack near the top hose neck that I "fixed" with JB Weld. Your results may vary. The radiator hose clamp was rubbing the shroud, so I cleared the should. Maybe the "bind" between the clamp & shroud caused the side tank to crack. 5k miles later with no leak but fix it the way that will make you confident.

wreakhavoc

As if we are all supposed to know that "J 38185" is swahili for a hose clamp removal tool?

MrHiPerf

Even though this thread is kind of dated, I'm gonna add to it. I have replaced my water pump (which was shot and squealing like a bitch, made me embarrassed to drive the car) , my coolant reservoir (top tube near fill cap had become brittle and broke) , and now, the radiator is leaking here:




Sometimes I feel like I'm playing whack-a-mole with this car!

MrHiPerf

Coolant reservoir tank showing failed attempt to seal tube with epoxy:




The first leak occurred as a pinhole at the inside end of the overflow tube. This epoxy fix failed to work also:

elderberry

if you change a part , you should upgrade ( if possible ) , not just replace
IMHO

ipuig

Removal procedure:

1. Purchase a service manual.
2. Consult the service manual prior to replacing or repairing the car.
3. Perform the repair or replacement, consult the service manual while performing this step.
4. Complete repair, consult the service manual to verify you did not miss anything.
5. Test drive car.
6. Store service manual in a safe location for the next repair.

WildBZ06

Very old thread, but there are still guys out there that look for info so I'll add some to this thread. My stock radiator cracked in the same place, top of d.s. plastic end tank. There is a fine seam in the plastic rt there. I ordered a used one from a salvage yard online. Swapped it out on afternoon, took a couple hrs. I put some system flush in it and let it run for a bit, and holy **** it had a crack in the exact same spot! Couldn't see it until it had hot water pushing out. Got my money back and now trying to decide what to do now, fix mine or buy new replacement.

racebum

brand new oem radiators from ac delco are 180 shipped via amazon

had no idea there was much of a market for used plastic tank rads

BLWN2KC5

Found a leak, So I need to replace my radiator. I'm looking for "Procharged" C5 radiator swap information because I had to replace the stock cradle with Prochargers cradle which leans the radiator and AC condenser back at a steeper angle to allow for the blower air tube and filter. After crawling under the car to see what I was getting myself into. I wasn't sure if taking the radiator out through the top or from underneath would be easier. Prochargers website doesn't have the information I'm looking for.

But, on their website they do have an exact picture of my system (top of engine) setup. It's gonna be a PITA!

http://www.procharger.com/c5_corvette.shtml

Any body out there got some tips or tricks?

Much appreciated.

BLWN2KC5

Pics and/or video is a welcome addition! Thanks.