So I have this nasty orange sludge crapping up my coolant system. I'm going to replace my h2o pump, radiator and thermostat all at once. I have an item selling on eBay now @ $177.50, and the auction doesn't even end until Tuesday night. I am figuring on about $250-$300 dollars. Is there any specific brand I should look for, or even more, stay away from? H2o pumps are cheap, but there are a few different companies that make them. As far as radiators, I have no clue what to look for. My criteria for this is sub $300, and the source has to take paypal.

 

I would suggest buying cooling system components locally....easy exchange on warranty issues. Add a new fan clutch and rad cap to your list a replacement parts and maybe new hoses and belt. Removing the plastic air filter box makes removing the bottom rad hose much easier. Flush the heater core thru a heater hose and then while the t-stat and water pump are off, flush the motor with a garden hose stuck in the t-stat hole. Flush both separately 'til water is clear.

New coolant is likely to turn rusty quickly so keep an eye on it and drain/re-fill as soon as u see signs of coolant color getting darker. Drain/re-fill intervals will get longer if u don't wait 'til coolant gets rusty.

 

Yea, I agree, shop local for a radiator. I was also looking on E-bay and the prices looked good, but if there is anything wrong, you'r waiting another few weeks. I looked at my local Advance, Autozone etc and found a new radiator from the local junk yard with a 3 year warrenty. The cost was $125 w/tax, about $70 less than Autozone. The radiator was a 3 core just like the orginal, but was slightly different on the top mounting to the cross member. Fabricated a small piece of metal with 2 holes to secure the radiator in place.

 

Cool, sounds better than my idea. Any ideas on waterpumps? Are they all the same, or are some better than others?

 

I have used the standard Autozone or my local autoparts basic replacement waterpump with no problems over the last 20 years (when I have to replace one). They usually carry a lifetime replacement warrenty. I have found the only difference is the lower priced units are rebuilds where they replace the bearings, etc. while using the existing housings. Paying extra for "New" pumps means everything is new, but usuall at double the price. Yes the saying is "You get what you pay for", but there are times when a new pump can come with a bad bearing too. The choice is really up to you. good luck

 

I spent the "big bucks" for factory replacement parts with the exception of a copper/brass 3 row rad. It didn't make any diff to the running temp. but I have "peace of mind"...I think...