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 Write-Up: Radiator Replacement

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highwaywarrior
robotennis61
charlieRobinson
gmann3001
J. Chris Davis
Natesriv
LARRY70GS
deekster_caddy
AA
albertj
playa
96riv
rivy96
Jack the R
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Eldo
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charlieRobinson
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charlieRobinson


Name : Charlie
Age : 39
Location : Knoxville, TN
Joined : 2011-05-17
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Write-Up: Radiator Replacement  - Page 4 Empty
PostSubject: Re: Write-Up: Radiator Replacement    Write-Up: Radiator Replacement  - Page 4 EmptySat Mar 16, 2013 4:55 pm

Robo, you are, without a doubt, one of the most innovative mugga bluggas around here! Nice!
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robotennis61
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robotennis61


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Write-Up: Radiator Replacement  - Page 4 Empty
PostSubject: Re: Write-Up: Radiator Replacement    Write-Up: Radiator Replacement  - Page 4 EmptySat Mar 16, 2013 5:20 pm

well my man,pretty soon most parts will become obsolete. sooner or later the aftermarket will be the Rivs only support. kinda exagerated but im sure if you look, youll find many parts available for the Riv harder to find. what im trying to do is make the Riv as repair friendly as i can.I allmost have full access to the engine components that could only be previously accessed by removal of surrounding components.simple is just plain better.
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Eldo
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Eldo


Name : Mark
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Location : West Salem, Oregon... FINALLY
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Write-Up: Radiator Replacement  - Page 4 Empty
PostSubject: Re: Write-Up: Radiator Replacement    Write-Up: Radiator Replacement  - Page 4 EmptyWed Mar 20, 2013 4:49 am

AA wrote:
That JEGS unit looks nice, and priced right. I like having the coolant level sensor (saved me once), but I wouldn't miss the
cracking plastic hose fitting on the OEM one bit. I'd like to find an all metal option with the sensor, or modify one like this to accept it.

I'm pleasantly surprised about that... surprised
I always kinda' thought that the coolant sensor (unlike the oil sensor) is mounted so low as to be almost
useless - figuring that the temp would rise before the level light would come on.
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AA
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AA


Name : Aaron
Age : 47
Location : C-bus, Ohio
Joined : 2007-01-13
Post Count : 18452
Merit : 252

Write-Up: Radiator Replacement  - Page 4 Empty
PostSubject: Re: Write-Up: Radiator Replacement    Write-Up: Radiator Replacement  - Page 4 EmptyWed Mar 20, 2013 8:36 am

When my water pump failed, the coolant started leaking out. Low coolant light came on before things got too hot. I think I was 1/2 gallon low I I remember right.

_________________
'05 GTO 6.0L • 6-spd • 95k miles • 0-60: 4.8s • 16.9 avg MPG • Nelson Ledges Lap: 1:26

'95 Celica GT 2.2L • 5-spd • 165k miles • 0-60: yes

'98 SC Riviera • 281k miles • 298 HP/370 TQ • 0-60: 5.79s • ET: 13.97 @ 99.28 • 4087 lb • 20.1 avg MPG • Nelson Ledges Lap: 1:30
3.4" pulley • AL104 plugs • 180º t-stat • FWI w/K&N • 1.9:1 rockers • OR pushrods • LS6 valve springs • SLP headers • ZZP fuel rails
KYB GR2 struts • MaxAir shocks • Addco sway bars • UMI bushings • GM STB • Enkei 18" EV5s w/ Dunlop DZ101s • F-body calipers
EBC bluestuff/Hawk HP plus • SS lines • Brembo slotted discs • DHP tuned • Aeroforce • Hidden Hitch

^^^ SOLD ^^^ frown

'70 Ninety-Eight Holiday Coupe 455cid • 116k miles
^^^ SOLD ^^^ frown
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http://www.cardomain.com/ride/657082/4
highwaywarrior
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Name : daryl
Age : 41
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Write-Up: Radiator Replacement  - Page 4 Empty
PostSubject: Re: Write-Up: Radiator Replacement    Write-Up: Radiator Replacement  - Page 4 EmptySat Sep 28, 2013 6:26 pm

My radiator is leaking from somewher upper left, ordered oem from rockauto, should be here monday. Interestingly I read this write up weeks ago and went ahead and bought a waterpump from zzp, in anticipation that mine to may fail, the pulley has alittle play. Good thing I have a week off, this is going to be fun. Looking for waterpump writeups
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Eldo
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Eldo


Name : Mark
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Location : West Salem, Oregon... FINALLY
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Write-Up: Radiator Replacement  - Page 4 Empty
PostSubject: Re: Write-Up: Radiator Replacement    Write-Up: Radiator Replacement  - Page 4 EmptySat Sep 28, 2013 10:37 pm

HWW, do you mean upper left core or upper left tank?
When my own radiator failed, the core was perfect but one of the brackets molded into the left tank cracked the plastic...
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highwaywarrior
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Name : daryl
Age : 41
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Write-Up: Radiator Replacement  - Page 4 Empty
PostSubject: Re: Write-Up: Radiator Replacement    Write-Up: Radiator Replacement  - Page 4 EmptySat Sep 28, 2013 10:48 pm

Hey, it seems to br comimg from the upper drivers side tank on the radiator. And possibly in 2 other places one in the middle or the core on tye bottom and on the passenger side,
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AA
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AA


Name : Aaron
Age : 47
Location : C-bus, Ohio
Joined : 2007-01-13
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Write-Up: Radiator Replacement  - Page 4 Empty
PostSubject: Re: Write-Up: Radiator Replacement    Write-Up: Radiator Replacement  - Page 4 EmptySun Sep 29, 2013 12:29 am

Left upper seems to be a common failure point. There's a water pump write-up. It can be done in an evening.

_________________
'05 GTO 6.0L • 6-spd • 95k miles • 0-60: 4.8s • 16.9 avg MPG • Nelson Ledges Lap: 1:26

'95 Celica GT 2.2L • 5-spd • 165k miles • 0-60: yes

'98 SC Riviera • 281k miles • 298 HP/370 TQ • 0-60: 5.79s • ET: 13.97 @ 99.28 • 4087 lb • 20.1 avg MPG • Nelson Ledges Lap: 1:30
3.4" pulley • AL104 plugs • 180º t-stat • FWI w/K&N • 1.9:1 rockers • OR pushrods • LS6 valve springs • SLP headers • ZZP fuel rails
KYB GR2 struts • MaxAir shocks • Addco sway bars • UMI bushings • GM STB • Enkei 18" EV5s w/ Dunlop DZ101s • F-body calipers
EBC bluestuff/Hawk HP plus • SS lines • Brembo slotted discs • DHP tuned • Aeroforce • Hidden Hitch

^^^ SOLD ^^^ frown

'70 Ninety-Eight Holiday Coupe 455cid • 116k miles
^^^ SOLD ^^^ frown
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http://www.cardomain.com/ride/657082/4
LARRY70GS
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LARRY70GS


Name : Larry
Age : 68
Location : Oakland Gardens, NY
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Write-Up: Radiator Replacement  - Page 4 Empty
PostSubject: Re: Write-Up: Radiator Replacement    Write-Up: Radiator Replacement  - Page 4 EmptyTue Nov 12, 2013 12:20 pm

Well, my original radiator developed the leak on the driver's side upper tank. Noticed it yesterday while getting fuel. Put some extra coolant in the overflow. It's not losing it very fast. Just see the driver's side tank is wet, and the steady drip-drip. I'll order a new radiator from Rock Auto. Any recommendations for which one. I see the AC Delco, Spectre, Pro, and Vista pro? Did you guys use any of these?

VISTA-PRO Part # 432624 {#9586, 99586} Ready-Rad; Mounting: Top Cradle / Bottom Cradle
SEE IMPORTANT INSTALLATION NOTICE; W/AC; W/H.D. COOLING; W/MAX COOLING; W/O AC (Only 2 Remaining)
Part Image
$95.79

SPECTRA PREMIUM / COOLING DEPOT Part # CU1779 {Click Info Link for Alternate/OEM Part Numbers}
Part Image
$138.79

PRO Part # 8012536 {#52381331}
Part Image
$139.79

ACDELCO Part # 20892 {#52472783}
RADIATOR CORE SIZE 30 5/16IN X 17 3/16IN X 1 5/16IN CODE AEE
Part Image
$183.79

_________________
98 Riviera SC3800  All stock except gutted air box.
1970 Buick GS455 Stage1, TSP built 470BBB, 602HP/589TQ
Best MPH, 116.06 MPH, Best ET, 11.54
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UHCda-t_Jls
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sfT2tEO4XcU
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LARRY70GS
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LARRY70GS


Name : Larry
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Location : Oakland Gardens, NY
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Write-Up: Radiator Replacement  - Page 4 Empty
PostSubject: Re: Write-Up: Radiator Replacement    Write-Up: Radiator Replacement  - Page 4 EmptyTue Nov 12, 2013 2:51 pm

I ordered the Spectre radiatior. 142.61 to my door with the discount code. I'll report back when I get it installed.

_________________
98 Riviera SC3800  All stock except gutted air box.
1970 Buick GS455 Stage1, TSP built 470BBB, 602HP/589TQ
Best MPH, 116.06 MPH, Best ET, 11.54
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UHCda-t_Jls
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sfT2tEO4XcU
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DaveE_95Riv
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Name : David Egan
Location : Minnesota USA
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Write-Up: Radiator Replacement  - Page 4 Empty
PostSubject: Re: Write-Up: Radiator Replacement    Write-Up: Radiator Replacement  - Page 4 EmptyWed Nov 13, 2013 7:10 am

My radiator also failed a couple days ago on my '95. The problem seems to be coming from just an inch or two below the upper radiator hose, the plastic side seems to have cracked.
This is available today, will have to pay more because its a local parts store, but have to get'er running asap now with some money in my account. Will also report back.
Murray® Heat Transfer - Radiator Part # 431364
I looked up the unit on Amazon, and the VISTA-PRO came up. Same unit, just a different name on the box? I wonder just how many of our parts are made by the same manufacturer, just marketed under different labels, and of course, prices?
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LARRY70GS
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LARRY70GS


Name : Larry
Age : 68
Location : Oakland Gardens, NY
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Merit : 150

Write-Up: Radiator Replacement  - Page 4 Empty
PostSubject: Re: Write-Up: Radiator Replacement    Write-Up: Radiator Replacement  - Page 4 EmptySat Nov 16, 2013 3:22 pm

Well, got the job done today.  Took me 4 hours working slowly and carefully so as not to break anything.  We all know how that can happen.  I bought the Spectra Premium Radiator from Rockauto.  Was 141.00 to my door with the discount code.  Paperwork that came with the radiator said Vista Pro, so Sprectra must be the same manufacturer.    I am happy to report that it was indeed a drop in installation, and 45.00 cheaper than the AC Delco unit.  The only problem I had was the 2 center bolts that hold both fans to the radiator.  The replacement bolts furnished were no where near long enough.  The stock radiator has 2 clip nuts that receive self threading bolts.  The Spectra Radiator had  a different arrangement using 2 square, threaded nuts that slid into a plastic receiver, so I could not use the clip nuts.  What I did was use the stock self threading bolts, some anti seize, and I slowly rethreaded those 2 square nuts that were provided.  Worked just fine.  This write up was a HUGE help though(Thanks Scott).  Had some trouble getting to the fan electrical plugs.  You kind of have to feel around with a small screwdriver for the release clip.  Took me a little while, I didn't want to break anything.  The Spectra radiator came with the proper transmission inverted flare fittings.  Didn't have to transfer any fittings from my old radiator.  You have to be very careful not to cross thread, and it doesn't take much to seal up.  Instructions say 1/4 turn past hand tight, or 5 ft. lbs.  Reused the lower hose extension.  My hoses looked great, so I didn't replace them.  Transferred the low coolant sensor.  O rings looked fine, so I smeared some white lube on them and installed the sensor.  It didn't leak.

Write-Up: Radiator Replacement  - Page 4 NewRivRadiator_zps185b76ee

Write-Up: Radiator Replacement  - Page 4 NewRadTransfittings_zpsaa0fbab7

_________________
98 Riviera SC3800  All stock except gutted air box.
1970 Buick GS455 Stage1, TSP built 470BBB, 602HP/589TQ
Best MPH, 116.06 MPH, Best ET, 11.54
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UHCda-t_Jls
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sfT2tEO4XcU


Last edited by LARRY70GS on Sun Nov 17, 2013 8:12 am; edited 1 time in total
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AA
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AA


Name : Aaron
Age : 47
Location : C-bus, Ohio
Joined : 2007-01-13
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Write-Up: Radiator Replacement  - Page 4 Empty
PostSubject: Re: Write-Up: Radiator Replacement    Write-Up: Radiator Replacement  - Page 4 EmptySat Nov 16, 2013 6:19 pm

Nice job, Larry. Hope yours lasts just as long as the OEM.

_________________
'05 GTO 6.0L • 6-spd • 95k miles • 0-60: 4.8s • 16.9 avg MPG • Nelson Ledges Lap: 1:26

'95 Celica GT 2.2L • 5-spd • 165k miles • 0-60: yes

'98 SC Riviera • 281k miles • 298 HP/370 TQ • 0-60: 5.79s • ET: 13.97 @ 99.28 • 4087 lb • 20.1 avg MPG • Nelson Ledges Lap: 1:30
3.4" pulley • AL104 plugs • 180º t-stat • FWI w/K&N • 1.9:1 rockers • OR pushrods • LS6 valve springs • SLP headers • ZZP fuel rails
KYB GR2 struts • MaxAir shocks • Addco sway bars • UMI bushings • GM STB • Enkei 18" EV5s w/ Dunlop DZ101s • F-body calipers
EBC bluestuff/Hawk HP plus • SS lines • Brembo slotted discs • DHP tuned • Aeroforce • Hidden Hitch

^^^ SOLD ^^^ frown

'70 Ninety-Eight Holiday Coupe 455cid • 116k miles
^^^ SOLD ^^^ frown
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http://www.cardomain.com/ride/657082/4
LARRY70GS
Aficionado
LARRY70GS


Name : Larry
Age : 68
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Post Count : 2193
Merit : 150

Write-Up: Radiator Replacement  - Page 4 Empty
PostSubject: Re: Write-Up: Radiator Replacement    Write-Up: Radiator Replacement  - Page 4 EmptySun Nov 17, 2013 8:11 am

AA wrote:
Nice job, Larry. Hope yours lasts just as long as the OEM.
Thanks Aaron,
The unit I installed looked almost exactly like the one I took out, so I think it should.

_________________
98 Riviera SC3800  All stock except gutted air box.
1970 Buick GS455 Stage1, TSP built 470BBB, 602HP/589TQ
Best MPH, 116.06 MPH, Best ET, 11.54
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UHCda-t_Jls
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sfT2tEO4XcU
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rodrivi
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rodrivi


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Write-Up: Radiator Replacement  - Page 4 Empty
PostSubject: Re: Write-Up: Radiator Replacement    Write-Up: Radiator Replacement  - Page 4 EmptyWed Feb 19, 2014 12:49 am

I was taking the bolt that holds the condenser to the radiator and the hole the bolt goes through on the condenser broke off. Will I have to buy a new condenser or do anybody know a cheap fix? Or is it necessary to have both sides screw in?
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Abaddon
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Abaddon


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Write-Up: Radiator Replacement  - Page 4 Empty
PostSubject: Re: Write-Up: Radiator Replacement    Write-Up: Radiator Replacement  - Page 4 EmptyWed Feb 19, 2014 8:22 am

rodrivi wrote:
I was taking the bolt that holds the condenser to the radiator and the hole the bolt goes through on the condenser broke off. Will I have to buy a new condenser or do anybody know a cheap fix? Or is it necessary to have both sides screw in?

That sucks  headbutt  You certainly don't want the condenser rattling around if you can help it. Do you have any high strength epoxy to glue the piece back on? It may or may not hold, but it's certainly worth a shot.

How much of it broke off? The whole tab or just a part of it?
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rodrivi
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rodrivi


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Write-Up: Radiator Replacement  - Page 4 Empty
PostSubject: Re: Write-Up: Radiator Replacement    Write-Up: Radiator Replacement  - Page 4 EmptyWed Feb 19, 2014 11:43 am

It was so rusty that it snapped in half. Yea I was going to try some JB weld later on after work. Im also having a hard time getting the radiator to line up with the condenser properly. Any sugguestions? Do the condenser need the foam on it cause half of the foam is gone?
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crlombardi69
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Name : Chris L
Age : 56
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Write-Up: Radiator Replacement  - Page 4 Empty
PostSubject: Re: Write-Up: Radiator Replacement    Write-Up: Radiator Replacement  - Page 4 EmptyWed Feb 19, 2014 12:44 pm

I replaced my radiator this summer with a brand new one from rockauto and had no problems except that lower mount for the electric cooling fans was to rusted to re-use. I have checked everywhere and these are no longer available. I need to find a good used one if anyone knows where I can find one please let me know.
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http://crlombardi69@yahoo.com
Z-type
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Z-type


Name : Andrew Zamiska
Age : 37
Location : Cecil, PA - 25 miles south of Pittsburgh
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Write-Up: Radiator Replacement  - Page 4 Empty
PostSubject: Re: Write-Up: Radiator Replacement    Write-Up: Radiator Replacement  - Page 4 EmptyWed Feb 19, 2014 12:56 pm

My tabs were rusted on my old radiator, but when I replaced it 2 years ago new tabs came installed on mine. It was a Vista-Pro if I remember correctly. The only problem I had was having no real way to mount the TOP middle of the fans. I had to rig something, but you don't see it anyway.
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Abaddon
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Abaddon


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Write-Up: Radiator Replacement  - Page 4 Empty
PostSubject: Re: Write-Up: Radiator Replacement    Write-Up: Radiator Replacement  - Page 4 EmptyWed Feb 19, 2014 5:53 pm

rodrivi wrote:
It was so rusty that it snapped in half. Yea I was going to try some JB weld later on after work. Im also having a hard time getting the radiator to line up with the condenser properly. Any sugguestions? Do the condenser need the foam on it cause half of the foam is gone?


I'm not quite sure what to recommend for you lol. I haven't run across that issue yet on anything. Just so I'm clear, this is the tab that the 10mm bolt goes through to attach to the J-nut that's on the Radiator, right?

EDIT: Damn man. I just looked at my original post on page 1. You can see that tab a few pictures down. I have absolutely no idea how you'd re-attach that to where it's actually secure enough....
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rodrivi
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rodrivi


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Write-Up: Radiator Replacement  - Page 4 Empty
PostSubject: Re: Write-Up: Radiator Replacement    Write-Up: Radiator Replacement  - Page 4 EmptyFri Feb 21, 2014 4:00 pm

I used some jb weld steel stik to put it back on and then sanded it down. Worked good so far.
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Abaddon
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Abaddon


Name : Scott
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Write-Up: Radiator Replacement  - Page 4 Empty
PostSubject: Re: Write-Up: Radiator Replacement    Write-Up: Radiator Replacement  - Page 4 EmptyFri Feb 21, 2014 4:09 pm

Lettuce pray  jesus 
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rodrivi
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rodrivi


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Write-Up: Radiator Replacement  - Page 4 Empty
PostSubject: Re: Write-Up: Radiator Replacement    Write-Up: Radiator Replacement  - Page 4 EmptySun Feb 23, 2014 1:34 am

Finally got it all done Friday. Its holding pretty good. Thanks for the help.
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