Radiator leaking

[sneitzel]

When I was replacing the TPS on my car over lunch today I noticed I had a coolant leak. I think I've had one for a while since I always get just a hint of coolant smell when the car is warm. Since the car was already hot I looked around to try and find it and I did. There are small cracks in the side of the radiator.


I'm assuming this sort of thing cannot be fixed and living in south Texas I'm not sure I'd trust it anyway.

Should I just go with a stock radiator again or is it worth the $$ to step up to something else?

Local parts store range from $160 to $225 for replacements.

[Jeff_in_Atl]

Just to give you another option, we have some local radiator shops around here that will replace the side tanks for like $80.

[RangerBob]

I've been looking at a replacement too.
According to this page, the 93-96 radiator was a third of an inch thicker.
I don't know if that translates to improved cooling or not.

You decide

Radiator mod

[sneitzel]

I think I'd rather just replace the whole thing, especially since I can go pick one up today and swap it this afternoon.

I checked online for a high performance radiator and wow, they don't give those away.

Next question. OEM replacement or aftermarket?
Dealership wants $269
I got another quote for a direct OEM replacement for $160 and an aftermarket replacement for $135.

[Jeff_in_Atl]

I'd go with the OEM replacement ($160) for a 93-96. The worst thing to have is a problem getting it in because something isn't quite "OEM".

[sneitzel]

Went with the $160 option. They delivered it to my door same day for that price (plus tax) It turned out it was not OEM replacement but was in fact aftermarket. I don't remember the brand, I'll look at the box again when I get home but it fit perfectly.

I ordered for 1997 but the box actually did say it was for 93-96 and the replacement was in fact thicker than stock, much like the comparison pic. RangerBob posted.

When it actually heats back up here (pouring rain here today) we'll see how it performs.

[Jeff_in_Atl]

Went with the $160 option. They delivered it to my door same day for that price (plus tax) It turned out it was not OEM replacement but was in fact aftermarket. I don't remember the brand, I'll look at the box again when I get home but it fit perfectly.

I ordered for 1997 but the box actually did say it was for 93-96 and the replacement was in fact thicker than stock, much like the comparison pic. RangerBob posted.

When it actually heats back up here (pouring rain here today) we'll see how it performs.

Modine ?

[sneitzel]

Modine?

No, that wasn't it.

[sneitzel]

Brand name is Ready-Rad by Proliance part #432399.