Radiator Replacement

[Clay Heinz]

Hey Folks,

I'm a newbie to the forum- and consider myself a shade tree mechanic. I've been told by my regular mechanic that my 97 Wrangler needs a new Radiator and I was wondering if this is a DIY or do I need to pony up the $$ to have them do it.

Does anyone know of any Links that will explain how to do it? Has anyone had any experience with their Radiator going bad- sympotms?

Thanks in advance!

[windywinters]

Changing your radiator is a fairly simple task. But...before you spend $ 200.00 for a new one I would have have your original one examined by a radiator shop. The two most common problems are clogged passages and leaks. A competent shop can boil out the crud, repair any leaks and repaint you original radiator for less than the cost of a new one. I just had my original 1989 Wrangler radiator reconditioned for $ 90.00 . Whether you choose to repair or replace the removal and installation is fairly simple. Be careful not to twist the hoses too hard when removing or you might damage the solder connections, I always use a razor knife and cut them off. Replace the hoses / clamps and thermostat while you are at it if it's been awhile. Use a 50/50 solution of antifreeze / water and you will be good to go. You can do this, just take your time and have confidence in your abilities.

[swtswizzle]

my radiator's cooling fins were corroded so bad they would fall apart when ever you touched them. I replaced it with a 3 core radiator, it only took me about 30 min to pull it and maybe an hour and a half to replace it, I also replaced the thermostat. it runs around 200 degrees now no matter what.

[sandy1]

Clay
Radiators in jeep wranglers are extremely prone to leakage,no matter what.I replaced mine and it wasnt even leaking yet..Contact Dirk at DPG off road,and get the 3 row rad.with lifetime warranty.Bolts right in,no mods what so ever.People will have a different opinion on this ,but I am very happy with mine and the price..and Dirk uses what he sells.!