Leaking Radiator

[jeremyp]

My D2 recently went in for a service and I asked them to look it over including why it was using coolant - I now have to top it up about once a week.

They removed lots of trim and said my radiator was leaking. Replacement was a £180 part plus about 3-4 hours work to replace as it also cools the gearbox oil (?) and the bumper needs to be removed.

They said in passing "of course, gone are the days when you can pour in rad weld".

I have two questions please:
1) Does that sound about right for the part and the hours?
2) Why can't I use Rad Weld to tide me over until finances allow for the £400-£500 job.

Thanks, as always, for any help

[Just_Ben]

The use of RadWeld is strongly advised against!!!!!!! It can clog up bits of the system and wreak havoc!
In terms of labour I would say no more than 1.5Hours, and probably 0.5ltr of extra ATF to top up after draining the cooler that is in the radiator.
You can remove the entire front end in under 1 hour, comfortably!!!!

[jeremyp]

Thanks Ben

Have you heard of a product called K Seal? I have been recommended it as the modern alternative that doesn't clog up the system?

http://www.k-seal.co.uk/k-seal.html

[Just_Ben]

Hmm, not convinced. I have used this before on an old Merc with a crack in the head and it did sort it but I would bet that the prob with your rad' is that the tend tank on one side has begun to separate from the matrix and so it'll be weaping from more than just a hole or split. IF they're sure it won't clog the system then for £9.99 it's worth a pumt I suppose but I, for now, remain sceptical! Good luck though, I hope it works if you try!

[jeremyp]

Oh no Ben, you've left me in a quandary now! I have a bottle of K Seal sitting next to me!

Does anyone have instructions on how to remove the radiator? I've read Conan's Engine removal thread but was hoping for more detail on the radiator removal. Does the aircon system need to be de-gassed, re-gassed? Is this a job that I can do (I am proficient in car mechanics) or do I need garage facilities over and above spanners etc?

[Conan_the_Librarian]

Don't do anything yet. I'll check tommorrow as as the bumper is coming off for some work. I have fitted a new AC radiator in the past. Cant remember if you can separate them without de-gassing.