At 137K my 98 i30 radiator has finally started seeping coolant at the tank to core seal. It's a slow leak but I would rather do it now than later. I know it is a fairly straightforward job. I just did a 97 Camry rad replacement for a friend. Anyone have any hints or shortcuts to this job. I really don't see any problems, but just checking. A local shop I have bought radiators from for the past 20 years has a new one for $85.00.

 

Two bolts and a plug removes the fan assy.
Take the splash shield down, disconnect the transmission cooling lines. (Auto)
Drain the radiator.
Remove upper and lower cooling hoses.
Remove two bolts holding the radiator to the upper support.
Remove and replace the radiator.

Fill the system just slightly lower then the top of the fill neck. Run the vehicle with the cap off and the heat on full blast until the system is up to operating temp. This will help burp any air out.

Easy job, take your time.

 

^^^^ Thank you for the answer. I didn't see a write up but I do have the FSM. I will check my rad support also, but I don't think its messed up. I will divide the labor time with beer drinking.

 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fd4F4Mj2sZI

link is a .org member doin a rad. replacement

 

Very easy job, especially if you have done it before.

 

1800radiator has Koyo's for about $85...

 

I'm not so sure that that would <burp> be a <burp> good idea

 

you may also need the rubber grommets that the radiator mounts in.

Here are the part numbers:

Mounting-Rubber, Radiator Lower, part # 21507-59Y00

Mounting-Rubber, Radiator Upper, part # 21506-51E00

 

^^^^^^ Thanks. My grommets are toast. I wouldn't have thought of that until half way thru the job and beer.

 

UPDATE.... I replaced the radiator this morning. Everything went smoothly except getting the splash guards off underneath the car. That took as long as doing the radiator swap. In all, it was about an hour job. Lower rad grommets were good. I replaced the top 2 grommets for $5.00 from the dealer. Thanks for everyone's help.