Removing The Radiator

[t666raa]

I need to remove the radiator (and replace at some point) to effect a repair or replacment, does anyone have any tips as how best to do this? are there any pitfalls to be aware of?
Many Thanks
R.

[justinbaker]

Nothing to it, 2 x 13mm nuts to undo, the fans connectors pull appart, then 2 jubilee clips, lift it out, its not heavy. (Dont forget to drain the system first, when re-filling undo the bleed screw as you dont want an air lock)

The fans unbolt top and bottom 8 x M10 bolts, if your swapping it, or repairing it.

[t666raa]

Thanks for the info, can you do this by just removing the main bonnet or is it advisable to dismantle other parts first?
Is there a speciified point to drain the system down?
TIA
R.

[donaldhunter]

Yes, you can do it by just removing the main bonnet, although it's slightly awkward leaning in from each side. You may want to get someone to help you lift the radiator out.

Alternatively, you could unbolt the front bonnet and gain much better access - there's a hex bolt at each side. You might find the bolts are rusted in place though.

Incidentally, have you any ideas what has damaged the radiator? Mine has sprung a leak and I'm waiting for a replacement to arrive. I have already replaced it once and I can't see what's causing them to burst. It might be fatigue due to flexing but I'm not sure.

Cheers,
Donald.

[donaldhunter]

Another thing I noticed while removing my radiator was that the fan connectors were starting to corrode. It will be worth protecting them from the elements when you fit the new radiator - electrical spray grease or something should help.

[t666raa]

Thanks for all the advice, came out without too much trouble.

Donald, not sure what's caused the problem or exactly where the leak is although it is in the area of where the top hose connect.
Core looks intact and is also protected by the Aircon Heat exchanger.

I am going to have it pressure tested to see where the leak is and if it can repaired if so should cost around £30 (a lot less than the £500 quouted if they could get hold of one (has to be worth a try).

Where were you sourcing your replacement from and what type there seem to be two or three and my one is the all ally one!

Roy.

[donaldhunter]

The '02 version that I have is an alloy core with plastic ends. Dreadnought TVR have ordered one from the factory and it's costing about £240.

If yours is all alloy then it should be repairable. I took my previous one to Serck Marston (now Serck Intertruck) for pressure testing and they said it wasn't repairable because of the plastic end pieces.