Replacing radiator in a 2002 Blazer
 

I found a small leak at the top of the radiator, far right side, on the plastic endtanks.

I'm pretty good with DIY work, but have limited experience with Blazer repair.

Questions-

- Is there any way to repair a small hairline leak on the plastic tanks without doing a full radiator replacement? This particular leak is top right front (facing the truck), about three inches down.

- If a full replacement is required, are there any funky/unusual tools needed?

Thanks much for any insight.

Mani

when my plastic end cap leaked i took to a radiator shop and they replaced the end cap and tested and cleand it for 1/4 the cost of new.they are really simple to take out (about 1/2 hour or so.i didnt use any special tools needed.

Thanks adam.

Are you referring to the hard plastic tanks on each end? If I'm reading correctly, the tank detaches from the main body of the radiator?

yeah you take the entire radiater out.the end caps are crimped onto the metal.the shop removes the bad plstic end cap and replaces it with a new one. its alot cheaper than a new radiator.i have not had a problem since.the shop told me they are prone to crack there because that is where the hottest antifreeze is always hitting.

Full repair... Easy as pie... Done it a few times ;)

Be sure to have some patience...
When I replaced mine I had the entire grille assembly off...
Just be careful with the AC lines that run to the condensor in front of it... (it is the condensor? i know it is part of the ac system)

I just replaced my radiator this past tuesday. It too had the cracks in the plastic, but I had no idea that they could be repaired or replaced individually.

With over 150k on it, however, I'm sure it was just best to replace the whole thing. Good to be able to drive in traffic with my a/c on again!