How to Rebuild a Car Radiator

A car's radiator is part of the cooling system and essential to the proper running of the car. If there is a problem with the radiator, or other parts of the cooling system, the car will overheat and ruin the engine. Radiators can be rebuilt with some knowledge and patience.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Remove the radiator using the instructions in your vehicle's repair manual. To do this you will need to remove the radiator hoses and the reservoir hose. Remove the front grill from your car, and the screws that attach the radiator fan. Slide the shroud toward the engine.

2. Mark where the hood latch goes; this will aid in the installation process. Detach the upper bolts that secure the radiator support panel and remove this. Remove the electric, or clutch-type, cooling fan and housing. If the vehicle has automatic transmission, disconnect the cooler lines and allow them to drain into a fluid pan.

3. Plug the lines and fittings of the cooler lines to prevent spillage and avoid contamination. Remove the radiator mounting bolts and carefully lift out the radiator. Set the radiator in the space where you will be working. Make sure the area is clean of debris, fluids, dust or other things that could contaminate the parts.

4. Inspect the outside of the radiator, looking for excessive corrosion, breaks, cracks, dents, deep grooves or other damage. Also, look for leaks. Make a note of the location of the various rubber seals, on top, bottom and sides of the radiator to ensure they are reassembled properly.

5. Contact local machine shops to ask about costs and time frame of repairing the radiator. This requires special equipment and techniques. Most machines shops should be able to handle the job and allow you to check on the progress of the project.

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