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05-16-2008, 07:54 AM
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#1 (permalink)
| | Senior Member
Join Date: Mar 2008
Posts: 134
|  Radiator leak
1996 Windstar 3.0L GL with 194489 miles. I had a new Motorcraft radiator installed at the dealership, which developed a micro-leak after 15k miles. This happened just after the warranty expiration. I had it repaired twice professionally, each of which failed. This mechanic uses epoxy repair rather than welding because plastic parts in the radiator. Last time when it leaked, I put in Alumaseal which lasted 1200 miles. Yesterday, it leaked again following a 500 mile travel in hot weather. I have again fixed it with Alumaseal, but the car is running very hot. Where I would like an advice from our pundits is if I should have it repaired professional or just go for a new radiator (350 bucks plus labor) OR JUST GET RID OF THE CAR? It's guzzling at 12 miles/gallon in city driving. Any ideas will be greatly appreciated. | 
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05-16-2008, 08:55 AM
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#2 (permalink)
| | Super Moderator
Join Date: Dec 2006 Location: Brookfield, Wisconsin
Posts: 1,573
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Throw some more Alumaseal in it and sell it.
__________________
Mark V
1998 Explorer 4.0 SOHC
1998 Windstar GL 3.8
2001 Corvette Coupe 6 Speed
2006 Honda Shadow Spirit 750 http://public.fotki.com/snextime/
Where is my Cape?
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05-16-2008, 09:19 AM
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#3 (permalink)
| | Senior Member
Join Date: Mar 2008
Posts: 134
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Thanks mark v for a quick response...I'll start looking into selling it. | |
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05-16-2008, 09:23 AM
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#4 (permalink)
| | Super Moderator
Join Date: Dec 2006 Location: Brookfield, Wisconsin
Posts: 1,573
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You got 194,000 on it so it is time to sell. The next owner should expect problems with that many miles on it.
__________________
Mark V
1998 Explorer 4.0 SOHC
1998 Windstar GL 3.8
2001 Corvette Coupe 6 Speed
2006 Honda Shadow Spirit 750 http://public.fotki.com/snextime/
Where is my Cape?
RockAuto Discount Code Discount Code: 194AD1718E27
Please enter this code in the ‘How Did You Hear about Us’ box to receive discount. Expires: 05/21/2008 If your exhaust tip is larger than your cylinder bore, then you are a Ricer.
You are as useful as a Screen Door on a Submarine! | |
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05-16-2008, 12:33 PM
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#5 (permalink)
| | Senior Member
Join Date: Mar 2008
Posts: 134
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The reason selling is one of my options is because of the regular expensive repairs. Like I said, the brand new OEM radiator only lasted 15k miles. Sorry Mark, big mistake....I failed to mention that I had an engine and transmission rebuild done at the dealership...new engine has 21k miles & tranny 13.5k miles. Even after the rebuild, the OD light still flashes occasionally...dealership says problem is PCM. I also put new OEM radiator (now leaking), alternator, A/C compressor/clutch/coil, PS pump, battery, brakes, front struts, front hubs, tie rod ends, Michellin tires after I bought it a couple of years back. The ABS light has been on since day one. MIL came on once due to a bad camshaft position sensor switch; new switch erased it. I like the car, am a rough driver (80MPH, quick take offs, sharp stops) but I do take care of it. But every now and then, this car seems to go on a big shopping spree. Other folks have also suggested to sell it and I am starting to lean in that direction especially because the car, on most occasions, is unable to handle long trips.
Last edited by vindctar; 05-16-2008 at 12:41 PM.
Reason: additions.
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05-18-2008, 12:01 PM
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#6 (permalink)
| | Senior Member
Join Date: Mar 2008
Posts: 134
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I decided to give it a try hence had a new radiator installed 2day....hope it will behave. | |
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