Does this look like I need to replace the radiator?

marklawder · Post by **marklawder** » 05 Feb 2016, 16:44

My research says this is a common leak on 850s. Going to be ordering a new rad and transmission clips now I guess...

Post by **scot850** » 05 Feb 2016, 16:53

Unfortunately yes. The radiator takes more strain at the top as the engine torque puts more strain on the top hose area and the plastic/metal portion fails.

First check it isn't just a failing/hard top hose.

If it is the radiator, change the top hose with a good quality item (NOT URO/APA), especially if using a none OE radiator as they don't have the metal insert in the upper outlet and tend to not seal 'round' so an old pipe will not deform to make up the gap.

Neil.

marklawder · Post by **marklawder** » 05 Feb 2016, 17:04

Seems to be seeping out between the plastic and metal portions. Top hose is sealed up. Will I need a new bottom hose as well or just the top one? Was going with the nissens brand radiator from fcp.

FastYellow · Post by **FastYellow** » 05 Feb 2016, 20:15

What brand is consider Volvo OEM?

Post by **rspi** » 05 Feb 2016, 20:44

Make sure you replace those rusty clamps.

Post by **dosbricks** » 05 Feb 2016, 21:42

FastYellow wrote:What brand is consider Volvo OEM?

Valeo

Post by **jreed** » 06 Feb 2016, 05:29

Just wanted to chime in that I replaced my old original radiator with a new Valeo/Volvo OEM radiator on my '97 855 GLT about three years ago and the Valeo has been working fine since then, as expected. So far, so good.

I wrote up a little 'diy' on the change-out here:
https://www.matthewsvolvosite.com/forums ... hp?t=55629

Post by **tryingbe** » 06 Feb 2016, 06:16

Yes, replace the radiator ASAP.

Post by **abscate** » 06 Feb 2016, 06:22

4 years on my Nissens with no problems

Post by **pkc303** » 06 Feb 2016, 21:27

I would also take a look at the motor mounts. The engine sinking puts pressure on that upper radiator hose cracking the plastic radiator. I used Volvo brand on the radiator and the hoses.