Changed out a radiator on an 02 blazer.. noticed i never transferred the bottom grommets after i already installed the new radiator and completed. How crucial are these? The radiator seemed pretty static without any play and i would hate to have to take everything back off for this.

Thanks!

 

I would pull the upper mount and then get underneath, lift the radiator just enough to put them in. They are little shock absorbers. Without them, as things bounce/flex, the radiator could be overly stressed, crack, and leak.

 

Also if the plastic end tanks are in constant contact with the steel of the rad support they will eventually wear a hole through the plastic from road vibrations. Put them back on.

 

Okay, thanks guys.

 

I know it isn't what you wanted to hear, but yes, those little grommets will save you from rubbing a hole or damaging the radiator.

 

Yea, hopefully it won't take too much work to do. I remember changing on my 85 Monte Carlo and never having these, so i was hoping i could get away without them.

 

Good call eaglei22. Leftover parts have a way of coming back and biting.

 

I think I went to rock auto for a set for under 30. O'Reillys wanted 25 a piece.
Later

 

what graveyard said, i needed a replacement unexpectedly and i paid $25 for a POS doorman piece of rubber, thought it was for the pair, and still thought it was over priced...i wasnt too happy when the guy at the store came back with one and rung me up. that said, it was easy to install, just a pry bar to lift up slightly on the rad and slip it in.