98 LX 4 cly-Auto with AC. 119K

Hi, local mechanic said I need a new radiator. They said $500...seems hight but I've never had to replace it.

Is a radiator replacement doable for a noob? Any input is appreciated.

Thank you

 

Its doable. You can download a 98-00 accord shop manual from the links in the online manuals thread in the DIY section. It is an .iso file that you will have to burn to a CD to get it to work.

Briefly, you will have to drain the coolant. Disconnect the upper and lower radiator hose. Disconnect the transmission cooling lines. Unplug both fans electrical connectors. Remove the two brackets on the radiator and pull out the assembly.

Remove the two fans and put them on the new one. Installation is the reverse.

Refill with proper coolant (50:50 mix of antifreeze and water), then bleed the system. Google zUpXgAJ1gjU. This is a video on how to properly fill the coolant.

 

Thank you for the reply.

Are the tranny connectors fragile? Would you recommend jack stands?

 

I replaced my 97 by myself without jacking it up.

Replacement Radiator was around $100 - $120 at autozone.

Not a real hard job.

 

My Honda and Acura is a manual transmission. I would douse the connector with PB Blaster before attempting to loosen.

 

Thank you for all the responses.

I have one more

Whats up with the Denso or Valeo system designation?

Cartpat dot com has a 98 accord radiators. One says w/Denso System,

another sys w/Veleo system.

The most $$ radiator says "fits both Denso/Velao systems"

Thank you in advance.

 

If you look at an OEM site like hondapartsnow.com, the radiator is labeled as a denso. Not sure what accords the other brand is used on.

 

If it is an auto (using my 95) it is easier to have the front end in the air. Getting to the trans cooler line clamps can be a pain if you are only coming from the top. Also from personal experience, I would buy new Trans Cooler hose-and I stress it has to be rated for trans use- and replace the old hose. Also add a quart or so of Honda trans fluid to the shopping list, some will be lost. If you haven't changed the trans fluid recently I'd go ahead and do that while you are "almost" there.

All of this is pretty simple, take your time and you should get thru this without any issues. Get the manual as suggested or at least buy on from a parts store. Then after reading, if you get stuck let us know. Someone will be glad to help.

 

Thanks Poorman. I just have to time this project properly. It's my wifes and I only car-and we both commute together...

I figure start early Sat morning. That gives me a weekend to get through it.

I build servers/computers I'm used to things taking 3x longer than planned

 

Understood. That is one reason I wanted to "add" to the shopping list. I hate running around on Saturday/Sunday looking for the "right" part.
Get the rad, inspect it. Get the hoses, new clamps and fluid before starting and you should be good to go. Again if you get "to a place" and have questions, there should be someone to help......good luck.

...and a bit of fun. At work we accuse IT of taking thier estimates and X by 2 just to be sure....again, don't take that the wrong way.