98 Regal EngineTemp Almost overheat

[patriot777]

There is an air flow problem causing my engine to overheat. The radiator's fins are plugged up and as long as I have to take it out I may as replace it because its 14 years old.

Apparently the condenser is also clogged up and the shop claims it also interferes with the air flow coming into the radiator.....can anyone confirm or deny that? I assume its mounted in front of the radiator? Its a 3800 vin k?

Also, since I'm replacing a condenser does that mean I need to replace the accumulator and/or orifice tube?

[HotZ28]

I would just change the radiator first, to see what happens. This a simple procedure, if you follow directions provided in the box. Changing the condenser is labor intensive and not for the DIY's without proper evacuation & recovery equipment. In addition, anytime the A/C system is partially disassembled, it is a good idea to replace the accumulator and orifice tube. You would also need to add about 4-oz of PAG-150 oil to the accumulator when replacing with a new unit. As mentioned, cleaning the condensor fins is an easy job.

[patriot777]

The condenser and radiator were replaced because the shop said it was clogged causing an airflow problem which would cause the overheat. I drove it home from the shop and without the a/c on. The temp gauge got past halfway to the 5th marker when I had to stop for a train for 6 minutes. The car was left in drive during this time. I opened the hood and the fans were not on. I'm getting pretty frustrated with this. I know the fans turn on when the a/c is on. Is there an expert on this kinda thing who can help me? Please don't guess Thanks!

[enslow]

Originally Posted by patriot777

The condenser and radiator were replaced because the shop said it was clogged causing an airflow problem which would cause the overheat. I drove it home from the shop and without the a/c on. The temp gauge got past halfway to the 5th marker when I had to stop for a train for 6 minutes. The car was left in drive during this time. I opened the hood and the fans were not on. I'm getting pretty frustrated with this. I know the fans turn on when the a/c is on. Is there an expert on this kinda thing who can help me? Please don't guess Thanks!

I don't know what temperature the 5th marker is, but the fans kick in with the AC on, or at low speed at something like 210 F and at high speed (second fan) at 240F.