Removing and replacing your vehicle’s radiator is a relatively easy task that typically requires the use of some simple tools and a couple of hours of your time. But before you take on a project like this, there are a few things you should do beforehand to prepare your vehicle for the new aftermarket radiator.
Our friends at Champion Cooling have released a new set of YouTube videos that will not only prep your vehicle to install your new radiator but will also give you tips to keep your engine running cool.
Your car’s coolant system is a vital link to ensuring your engine stays within optimum operating temperature and does not overheat. But throughout the life of your vehicle, corrosion and sediment can accumulate not only in a factory radiator that you are interested in replacing but also throughout the entire cooling system as well.
In the video above, Champion explains that before removing your vehicle’s old radiator, it’s always a good idea to perform a thorough flush of the cooling components. This will ensure that all the coolant passages are as clean as possible before installing the new system.
When using a commercial radiator flush product, be sure to let the engine run long enough to get up to operating temperature to ensure your engine thermostat is fully open. You may also want to run your vehicle’s heater at full steam as well to allow the flushing agent to circulate through the entire system completely.
Once the whole cooling system is completely flushed, it’s important to remember to dispose of the excess coolant properly. Antifreeze coolant and radiator flushing products can be deadly to pets and wildlife.
Never drain any excess coolant into the storm drains or septic systems. If you find any spilled coolant lying around, you can soak up any small spills by using kitty litter, sawdust or by just wiping the affected area down.
Never drain any excess coolant into the storm drains or septic systems. If you find any spilled coolant lying around, you can soak up any small spills by using kitty litter, sawdust or by just wiping the affected area down.
Preparing Your New Radiator For Installation
Once you have found the right high-performance radiator to fit your build needs, Champion Cooling offers an extensive selection of aluminum fan shrouds which are specifically designed to match the radiator you are installing. The shrouds provide a convenient way to mount electrical fans to the radiator securely and will increase your fans efficiency even at low road speeds.
If you are worried about clearance issues, the fans can also be mounted directly to the core using the provided Champion Cooling hardware. The video recommends installing a new thermostat and Champion’s inline coolant filter to your upper radiator hose to prevent radiator clogs before they start. The filter is a simple way to visually inspect the flow while the engine is running with the system as well.
Once you are sure everything is connected securely, fill the radiator with the mixture of coolant/antifreeze recommended by your particular auto company.
Proper radiator maintenance is crucial to keeping your car running at top performance. The videos above will ensure your project vehicle gets the maximum benefit in increased cooling performance and the longest life from your new cooling system.
For more information on the full line of Champion Cooling System products, visit the official Champion Cooling website.