When my truck is cold it leaks radiator fluid like a sieve along the driver's side seam where the plastic is attached to the aluminum. Once it is warm it is fine. Looks pretty easy to replace if I can find the right one for it. Seems like there are so many different types.

Anything I should look out for or just order one at Autozone and get her done.

 

OEM rad will do just fine, and the cooling flush is fairly simple on too. Be sure its the right one before pulling it apart.

 

Get the spectra from rock auto, it comes with the mount bushings. Lots cheaper the the zone.

 

Looking at your profile you have a 95 with a 4.9 and Std Trans......

I am a big fan of Rock Auto for many thing but best radiator deals are EBAY! Cheapest one there is $88.89 + Freight

Search Ebay: Item: 400247621503
Single Row no trans cooler : $68.81 Free Freight

Search Ebay: Item: 290617131376
Double Row w/ trans cooler : $70.92 Free Freight

I would do the double row and just plug the cooler - or your could plumb your power steering fluid through there.....

I have purchased radiators from both of these Ebay Stores and been very happy with both of them.

http://stores.ebay.com/radiators4less

http://stores.ebay.com/RadiatorClassic

Todd Stranczek
Benton, Arkansas

 

It may be temporary, but I just took a vice-grip and adjusted the gap and re-pinched down the metal clamps on mine and it seems to be holding. (For now anyway... )

-Thor

 

Thanks guy's for the advise and suggestions. I will seriously look into that. What about getting one with metal tanks instead of the aluminum core and plastic sides. From some reading I did yesterday, the plastic/aluminum radiators tend to fail and in the same spot.


I am going to try that today seeing that money is really thin and no jobs lined up yet. If that doesn't do it, I'll have to shell out some green notes because I'd rather replace the radiator than the engine.

My coolant is also the color of watery coffee. I need to flush it as soon as possible. Wonder if that is from precious owner using tap water in the radiator,or never flushing it? When I bought it it was really low. Anyone have a link to a good comprehensive instructions on how to flush it or is it an easy job.
Thanks

 

Looks like you have Advance Auto in the area. They stock the heavy duty radiator at most stores for $130, but you can use code CCABIN to drop it to $90. Buy it online and pick it up in store immediately.

 

I believe it is a one row on there now. I need to go look very closely at it. It has a oil cooler or transmission cooler as a separate unit mounted in front of the radiator. Is this stock or after market?

The truck in my signature is the one I am working on.

I wish the auto parts stores had the amount of info that those ebay stores that Todd posted do. I may order from them just because I know what I will be getting.

I really need to get a service manual so I know what I am looking at and talking about.

 

Two row for $130 (90 after coupon)
Single row for $117 (77 after coupon)
Specs are available if you click the links. Both versions appear to be in-stock items at all the stores in my area, so probably yours as well.

 

I've read that the double row doesn't work if the truck originally had a single row. The fan shroud won't fit and supposedly the fan clutch contacts the fan.