2000 Seville STS Radiator Replacement, any advice?

Clem8fan · #1 (**permalink**) 08-06-09, 09:43 AM

I have a 2000 Seville STS that has developed a "split" or "hole" right below the upper radiator hose attachment neck. I checked the cost of the repair through my local dealer to find its about 800+/- and decided to do it myself. It doesn't appear to be that difficult of a procedure, however this will be my first repair of this vehicle and was wondering if there are any tips/tricks out there or general items to be concerned about or to watch out for. I'm a new member and poster so I look forward to any assistance the masses out there can provide. Thanks in advance!

JC

Mark C · #2 (**permalink**) 08-06-09, 11:20 AM

Its not that hard a job, BUT you need to pull the A/C condenser out which means you going to have to recharge your A/C system when done. The condenser, front hood latch support and the headlights are the only thing that need to come out to get he radiator out. Takes about an hour and a half to 2 hours to do the job most of the bolts are 10mm. Hardest part is getting the spring clamps off the drivers side radiator hose, as it seems like they purposely put them on in a location where you can't get a good grip on the ears of the clamp.

BIG ERN · #3 (**permalink**) 08-06-09, 02:52 PM

the best price i got was from an e-bay store named Kaiser Radiator for my 98 STS $140.00 shipped overnite to my front door, that was without an oil cooler one with an oil cooler was about $100.00 more. when i did mine i didn't have to remove the AC condensor i just moved it out of the way all in all a prety easy job

Clem8fan · #4 (**permalink**) 08-06-09, 06:02 PM

Thanks for the heads up guys. I had hoped it would be easy, and if those items are all that has to be moved/removed I feel better about it already. This forum will prove to be very helpful I can tell already. I'll let you know about my progress. Off the top of your collective heads do you all happen to know what it costs to re-charge the AC in the instance that the condenser can't simply be moved aside? I'm sure any shop can do this but I've never had to get my AC charged before, luckily I guess. Thanks alot, you all have proven to be quite helpful.

Jeremy