Used Volvo Radiator from Pick & Pull

Post by **E Showell** » 03 Mar 2019, 11:36

I need a replacement radiator for a V70. I am considering going genuine Volvo despite the considerable price premium.

I had also thought about harvesting a used one from Harry's for about half the price of new aftermarket. I've never changed a radiator, so I was thinking pulling a used one would give me installation insights.

Plan would be to replace all hose clips & clamps and replace any hoses with new as needed.

Thoughts?

Post by **Antoine240bk** » 03 Mar 2019, 12:45

Hi,

You could go for a used genuine Volvo radiator if it is in great condition, and no deposit at the bottom, this will avoid doing the job twice!
I have gone with a new rad Nissen brand on my V70, quite well made for half the price and silicone hoses too. There is a few tricks you will have to do, as support the AC Radiator and the Rad to make it easier. I did drain the coolant first and then blow a good breath through the coolant tank, this as drained more coolant from the heater matrix circuit.

While at it check and change your thermostat coolant seal

Post by **SuperHerman** » 03 Mar 2019, 13:07

There are write ups on the process on this forum, one of them pretty recent.

The only item I will add is do not twist the radiator when removing and installing. The number one source of leaks is at the edges, where twisting shows its impact. Many have installed new radiators and have them fail w/n a few years because they twisted them during the process. So straight up and straight down - remove anything in the way to avoid twisting.

A used unit with a good warranty on an older car is not a bad idea. After market radiators, the ones I have used, have not been a problem. Nissen is a solid brand.

Post by **abscate** » 03 Mar 2019, 13:59

Start hitting the two bolts holding the radiator ears with PB elixir two weeks before attempting to loosen them.

I got 14 years out of the Volvo and 4 out of the Nissens. I think the 4 was my bad install, not the radiator quality

Cost savings of a junkyard is lost in the pulling labor if you give yourself a fair wage for that. I use $25/ hour

Post by **E Showell** » 03 Mar 2019, 16:20

You think it will take me 8 hrs. to pull?

crlande · Post by **crlande** » 03 Mar 2019, 16:40

Harry's Allentown just crushed their only 98. Hazelton has several. Considering the drive time there and back, the time to pull, the snow we are getting now, no good way to verify if good, $25 / hr sounds good as long as you don't have to pay NY taxes!

Post by **E Showell** » 03 Mar 2019, 16:48

Yeah, I sold the '98. So, I don't need a radiator for that.

Post by **abscate** » 03 Mar 2019, 17:03

E Showell wrote: ↑03 Mar 2019, 16:20 You think it will take me 8 hrs. to pull?

FCP with lifetime warranty. $125 Nissens

Harry's. $45

Difference is $80 for labor for brand new part over a used part

For me, no brainer for new.

Post by **E Showell** » 03 Mar 2019, 17:09

Genuine Volvo $300, Harry's $45. Big Delta.

Post by **abscate** » 03 Mar 2019, 17:24

I would go new Nissens on this one on my cars, Volvo on yours which are often a nasty tow away from home.

Rethinking. Nissens for you , too,