[Mook]

Hey guys, my 97 Yukon radiator started to leak around the oil cooler line at the plastic part of the radiator. The radiator shop told my that 90% of the time that they do not fix plastic radiators. They want over $1000 to put a new one in, including changing all the hoses and cap and flushing the system. I was thinking I should just do it my self. If I do it myself. Is it that hard to do? and where should I get a radiator that is decent quality and I don't get hosed on the price!

Thanks

[John V.]

I've replaced the one in a '93 Taurus and then more recently in the '97 Safari.

Not very difficult. Didn't tighten one of the trans cooler lines quite enough, caused a mess by the time I realized it.

Ordered from Radiatorbarn.com both times. I recall the rad costing maybe $120. I have NEVER replaced Rad hoses on the Safari (but it probably wouldn't be a bad idea. You'll need Coolant, not much else that I can think of.

I did eventially replace the Oil Cooler lines because they leaked at a joint (not the connections).

For the Safari, I have the Shop Manual. Toughest part was wiggling the two halves of the plastic shroud out and back in. You might want to be sure to have the specific instructions for the Yukon before starting, but really not much to it.

If you have to remove the fan, it could get tougher, wasn't necessary for the Safari.

[John V.]

BTW, I assume it is leaking coolant. If it is leaking oil, I bet that is an easier fix that won't involve rad replacement.

[Mook]

Originally Posted by John V.

BTW, I assume it is leaking coolant. If it is leaking oil, I bet that is an easier fix that won't involve rad replacement.

Thanks for the response John........yes it is leaking that expensive orange coolant!

[Artie]

Call 1-800-RADIATORS, ROCKAUTO.COM and Keystone Automotive, they supply aftermarket radiators as well as everythign else, I use them often. A little price shopping helps. The tanks crack and they can be replaced. I had one done but it was a buddy in the business so I didn't pay much. It might cost the same to do that as a new one.
Anyway, its not to bad of a job, requires a little muscle and flexability! LOL! And about 3 gallons of antifreeze. Use 50/50 extended life. If you have a little common sense its a walk in the park, have fun! As far as the hoses, unless they are buldged or bubbled up at the ends, you can use them over. If your antifreeze is dirty, flush the engine out before you change the radiator, you can use prestone rad flush. Sometimes it does wonders or could cause grief if your system is really dirty. If thats the case JUNK IT! LOL Kiddin, Thats all.

[Mook]

Thanks Artie, the junkyard wanted a $100 for one that is the same year (97) they give a lifetime warranty and it looked good,,,,,,,,but for $50 or so more I think I rather have a piece of mind.......not sure if I want to do the job twice!

Should I stay away from Autozone and Advance?

[Artie]

you can price shop them right online most of the time. I get my best service from the smaller mom and pop auto stores. However they have some good deals as well. All depends on what you are looking for.