used radiators FTL

Bobthebiker · Nov 1, 2009

I officially state as of now, that used radiators SUCK. So far I've spent $150 on used ones, gotten 1 V6 rad, and 2 leaking/damaged ones. $121.98 bought me one of the brand new in the box radiators with the thicker core, like 33% thicker.

So I am now $271.98 in radiators, and have a 2 year warranty on a new one that is in my truck. I feel like a moron for not realizing this to begin with.
that is all.

BadBlackX · Nov 1, 2009

Learned years ago to stay away from used radiators, much like electric fuel pumps. Once they are taken out of use, sit awhile and then put back into use I find 98% of the time they will leak or fail in short order.

Don't think of it as money wasted, you paid for valuable knowledge.

Bobthebiker · Nov 1, 2009

ITs still wasted money in this day and age. I feel as though I could have learned that online for FAR less. I really just wish I could get the $150 extra back so I can put it toward the samurai fund.

Slowlowandbangin · Nov 2, 2009

where did you get a new radiator?

i blew the rad in my camaro, and i was out of work and got a used rad for 35$ which blew in 2 weeks. my camaro doesnt run hot or anything, just shitty radiators.

then i got a nib one from autozone for 115$ and it has been perfect.

Bobthebiker · Nov 2, 2009

I got one from a small radiator shop in town. Wish I'd specified MANUAL trans because mine has the automatic trans cooler lines in it, but no big deal.

Autozone I wont go to, they're more money for me. plus that $121.98 was WITH sales tax too.

Mechnix · Nov 2, 2009

Dealt with that recently, 50+ for a used one or $100 shipped to my door for new. I knew I only wanted to do the job once & I didn't have to waste my time getting a used one somewhere. If you lose your coolant your out even more. If they didn't have those shity plastic tanks they probably last a lot longer...

Bobthebiker · Nov 3, 2009

ALL the ones I've had leaked from the cores.

Those plastic tanks are easy enough, I'd have to talk to a radiator shop about putting metal ones on in place of them. then I could at least solder them if they leaked.

Slowlowandbangin · Nov 2, 2009

planned obsolecence ftl

also my spelling ftl

What? · Nov 3, 2009

Wow, $150 USED radiator! I'm surprised you didnt check with local auto store parts first or ask on forum about it(some may rag on you for NOT researching BUT beter to pay $121 with some saying you're an idiot for not checking auto store cost than NOT saying anything and spend too much for what you only need new for cheap).

Also you can check www.gmpartsdirect.com some parts ARE cheaper than auto stores, it depends on which.

For everyone else, always check local auto store cost, warranty before you go checking at junkyards/craigslist/classified.

Bobthebiker · Nov 3, 2009

No, I bought 3 different used rads at $50/ea rather than paying $150 for one used.

What? · Nov 4, 2009

Ok got ya. That would be reasonable but junkyards(some) around here are refundable, so are you able to do that?

Bobthebiker · Nov 4, 2009

Only if I'd been within the 30 day limit, which I was not unfortunately.

SonnyD · Nov 4, 2009

Like the others, no used Radiators, fuel pumps, or anything else that takes
longer then about 30 minutes to install. I hate doing things twice, and
wasting money too. Now if a used radiator was 30 dollars and a new
one was 500, then I might take a chance.
Regards Sonny

SH-60B · Nov 4, 2009

lol, do you rinse out used condoms too?:haha:

Bobthebiker · Nov 5, 2009

those are cheap enough to buy multiple packs of..... :haha:

nti06 · Nov 5, 2009

There are just some items you shouldn't buy at a junkyard.

I hate when cheap asses come in with a junkyard alternator to get tested, and buy nothing.

At a minimum, they should buy a can of CRC clectronic cleaner to clean the oily, sand filled alternator they just bought.

dimerunner88 · Nov 5, 2009

i refuse to buy mechanical type parts at junkyards,they always break. i just get body parts and interior things at junkyards.

tg900 · Nov 5, 2009

hey what radiator did you get that was thicker?

Bobthebiker · Nov 5, 2009

I dont know what it is, but it came from a place in orlando based off the shipping label.

tg900 · Nov 6, 2009

hmm ok, i'm looking for a thicker radiator for my 2.2

nti06 · Nov 6, 2009

A new radiator from O'Reillys will be twice as thick as the original one. The one I got was around $150 and has a lifetime warranty.

Bobthebiker · Nov 6, 2009

The company that made mine is called "ReadyRad" and are evidently made in mexico.

tg900 · Nov 6, 2009

do you have a part number on the readyrad?

nti06 · Nov 7, 2009

I just looked it up. The website says O'Reillys has the Ready-Rad radiator #432388 for $129.99 and comes with a lifetime warranty.

deathphoenix99 · Nov 6, 2009

I'd buy a used rad for $15. But I'd check it over and pressure test it with a 30 day warranty.

Bobthebiker · Nov 6, 2009

I tossed the box so I dont have a part number. sorry I cant help more on that one.

used radiators FTL

Top Contributors this Month

Recommended Communities