[rlith]

First off, don't get one from a junk yard. It's just one of those pieces that you want new and with a warranty. Remember the old addage that you get what you pay for. A used radiator could be as bad if not worse than your current one.

That said, for replacement, simply remove the upper radiator shroud, drain the rad via the petcock on the lower corner. Disconnect the hoses. DO NOT REUSE THE STOCK RAD HOSE CLAMPS! Get a set of new tightenable clamps from the auto parts store. They usually run around 1.50 for a pack of 2.

Disconnect the transmission lines (passener side) and the oil lines (driver's side) Remember to replace the o-rings on the oil lines as they really aren't good to re-use.

Once all the lines are disconnected, rock the radiator from left to right so the nubs at the bottom come out of the rubber grommets. Once you feel them release, lift radiator straight out.


Since you put stop leak in the cooling system (never a good thing) You will need to do a back flush on the system. Do so a couple of times before installing your new rad.

(This might also be a good time to switch to an e-fan if you feel so inclined)

Install new radiator in reverse w/ the new o-rings and the new hose clamps.

Reinstall the upper rad shroud and fill the radiator to the top. Leave the cap off and start the truck and let it heat up to running temp (190 or so) Start topping off the radiator fluid as air is bleeding out and the hoses are re-filling.

Put cap on, top off your coolant recovery tank, go for a drive, enjot.