Expert: autohelp - 7/25/2005

Question
Hi, I recently developed a small radiator leak on my 1997 Chevy 1500 van. It has a 5.8 liter votec engine. The leak is up high and on one side so it never overheats but leaks fluid when I add to the coolant tank. I called the radiator shop and they said those radiators have plastic tanks that some time crack and leak or the gasket leaks. they want 275.00 to repair the radiator if they pull it out, or just 90 dollars if I pull it out myself and bring it to them. So my question is , is there anything special I should know or do before I pull it out and take it to them ? I've done plenty of repairs myself over the years, starters, alternators, and water pumps , so I have some mechanical knowledge. I just dont want to screw anything up by taking it out without knowing something I should look for. Your help and suggestions are appreciated. Thank you

Answer
Anytime you have a crack or a warpage on the plastic  tanks on the sides of the radiator, I have yet to see one that was repaired STAY REPAIRED as all of the ones that I have sent out for repair eventually leaked.

I did this about 5 times and have never ever had another radiator FIXED. I always informed the customer that the best solution and least problematic would be is to purchase a new radiator and if they did not want to do this then I politely informed them that I would NOT guarantee that the radiator would NOT leak at some point down the road.