Vectra B - New Radiator time?

[Vectramatic]

Hi all

Have a weep of coolant coming from the top hose area. I replaced the top hose, clamp and coolant but still have the problem. Does anyone know if these radiators are repairable? Or do I have to replace it (apparently very expensive?)

Blake

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[guy 27]

Without seeing it, it will be hard to determine wether it will be cheaper to fix or replace.

Is the leak on the weld where the hose goes on to the radiator or is it on the tank?

If its the first then i suggest just getting repaired otherwise your best off getting another one. (If your prices your getting are too high, send me a pm and i will see what i can do for you)

[Vectramatic]

Without seeing it, it will be hard to determine wether it will be cheaper to fix or replace.

Is the leak on the weld where the hose goes on to the radiator or is it on the tank?

If its the first then i suggest just getting repaired otherwise your best off getting another one. (If your prices your getting are too high, send me a pm and i will see what i can do for you)

Guy

Thanks so much that's very helpful. I think it is on the tank, near to or on the upper hose flange.

I'll get back to you when I have some quotes. It looks easy enough to fit, will the sensors swap over ok?

cheers
Blake

[028]

midas charged me 650 for radiator fitted,
still leaking after they replaced it,then I had to spend another 170 to replace radiator sensor.
problem sorted,I just hope it will last.

[Shay]

exact same problem in my vec a couple of montths ago.

radiator side tanks arent repairable, and the radiator is not designed to be serviced.

cost me 500 through Natrad, they were by far the cheapest i found, and the radiator is a much more solid unit than the stock one, quite impressed, but the veccy is a bitch to work with, so dont be suprised if people turn you away, or give you ridiculous quotes.

btw, holden were asking 1300 for a stock radiator LOL

[Vectramatic]

Hi Everyone


I purchased a Cryomax (Tiawanese) radiator for $345.00 from Red Devil Radiators at Northgate. The guy there was extremely helpful and gave me heaps of info about what to expect. Radiator has two year warranty.
I used an Auto radiator, which fits the manual fine, just didn't use the cooling ports (they're sealed)

OK, to replace the radiator you have to remove the front bar, front bar beam, left headlight, a/c fan, thermatic fan. You will need your torx socket/key set. Note your radio pin.

*Disconnect the battery*
Remove the grille and bumper first.

Either remove the front wheels, or put them on full lock to access the bumper bar screws. You will need to remove the inner mudguards to get to the bumper side screws.

Drive it up on ramps, or place on stands, before removing the rest of the clips/screws that hold the bumper/grille (don't forget if you have a CD, to disconnect the driving lights). Then remove the rest from the above list, all relevant screws / connectors, and drop the radiator out the bottom. The a/c condensor is fine to just hang there under it's own weight or you can tie it up. Be nice to the Airbag sensor (in the bumper bar beam).

It took three hours (over two nights) but it's done. Goes back together much more easily than it comes apart!

I just drove to Chermside (round trip about 20k) no leaks so far. If it happens again I'll be back here wailing about it!

Thanks for all the replies
Blake

[Vectramatic]

midas charged me 650 for radiator fitted,
still leaking after they replaced it,then I had to spend another 170 to replace radiator sensor.
problem sorted,I just hope it will last.

Small claims issue there. They misdiagnosed it.

[Vectramatic]

exact same problem in my vec a couple of montths ago.

radiator side tanks arent repairable, and the radiator is not designed to be serviced.

cost me 500 through Natrad, they were by far the cheapest i found, and the radiator is a much more solid unit than the stock one, quite impressed, but the veccy is a bitch to work with, so dont be suprised if people turn you away, or give you ridiculous quotes.

btw, holden were asking 1300 for a stock radiator LOL

Holden quote from Zupps Aspley was $510. WOW!

Fitted price inc parts- Natrad $560, Red Devil $675, Cairncross Radiators $415, Zupps $985. Warranty 2-3 yrs depending on supplier.

cheers
Blake

[Vectramatic]

It's been two weeks and about 1000km, no leaks at all...

[Shay]

It's been two weeks and about 1000km, no leaks at all...

problem solved then mate. notice any temp drop?