All,

I have a 96 4-dr EX with 150K and the original radiator. I noticed a few weeks ago that I was seeing some coolant leaking off the radiator and have identified the trouble spots. The first was a small crack by the neck which was fixed with some JB Weld, but I've also been seeing some leaking around the top seam. Now to my questions:

- I can probably continue working to fill the holes with JB Weld to try to seal the radiator up, but at 150K, is it time for a new one anyway (how long do they usually last ?)

- The dealer wants $500 to replace it and flush the system, while Pep Boys will do it for about the same but include a new thermostat and water output gasket. Does this seem overpriced, or is this about the going rate ?

- How difficult (and messy) is this to do yourself ? I change my own oil, do brake pads, etc., but am unsure how challenging this might be to do alone for the first time. Is this one really best left for the professional mechanic ?

Thanks in advance,

Pete

 

If you can change your brake pads yourself - then you must be a level smarter than an average dumb american

The Quotes you have gotten are overpriced

I paid only 99$ for my new radiator while Honda Original costs over 300$ and I had no problems installing it myself.

Ask your local AutoPart wholesalers - just open yellow pages and look for places that sell radiators. (import autoparts)

Make sure that you are getting exactly the same model as there are 2 different ones as Automatic transmission set up is different.

Get a Haynes Manual to help you with the job. Take your time and PLEASE dont flush your old antifreeze down the drain (or i will take my smart comment from this post) I Vote for a cleaner environment.

Use only Honda Original Antifreeze, you can replace thermostat with the gasket if you want - but I would just replace the radiator first.
Other than Radiator get Original Honda Thermostat and gasket from dealer don't hesitate.

Good luck