Radiator??

1998 HOLDEN COMMODORE
180,000 MILES
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CATHERINE1234
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I have a VS ute, purchased it 3 weeks ago. This morning there was steam/smoke coming from the motor and the temp went right up. I had a look and the radiator hose had come off and coolant was everywhere. I reattached the hose. Not sure what to do next. When I bought the ute, it had a large bottle of coolant and a bottle of water kept in the back, so I guess it is a recurring problem. It was only serviced 2 weeks ago. Does this mean it needs a whole new radiator?
Cath
May 13, 2013 at 6:16 PM
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MHPAUTOS
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I would be getting it checked for a blown head gasket, it is building up steam pressure normally a sure sign of a head problem
May 14, 2013 at 4:19 AM
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CATHERINE1234
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So, they put a new radiator in, still overheating. Said my options are:
1. They replace the head gasket - $1700 (and said this may or may not fix the problem)
2. Second hand motor - $4000
3. I use something like ChemiWeld - $cheaper
I paid $3000 for this car 5 weeks ago, have spent $800 on brakes, disks, service already.
What is your advice?
:( Very disappointed
May 16, 2013 at 7:48 PM
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MHPAUTOS
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The mechanic cab do a head check, this is a simple and quick chemical test to check for Co in the cooling system, if so you will have a head problem, also make sure that the water pump and thermostat are ok.
May 17, 2013 at 4:31 PM
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MHPAUTOS
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Chemiweld is a waste of time and money, if and if it dose anything it will not hold and it will block up the new radiator as well.
May 17, 2013 at 4:32 PM
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CATHERINE1234
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Thank you for your advice.
May 19, 2013 at 8:28 PM
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MHPAUTOS
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Let me know ow you get on.
May 20, 2013 at 2:25 PM