Radiator replacement

[almostarctic]

I need to replace my leaky rad and I was quoted about 900 including AC discharge/recharge. All the places I looked don't mention charging the AC and say that you just need to tie up the condensor so it doesn't come crashing down.

A buddy of mine who is a retired mechanic and now is a shade-tree offered to do it for me for case of beer if I bring the parts. Is the AC charge/ discharge necessary for this job?

[ecbsykes]

$900??? Time for a new mechanic!

I had a brand new radiator put in with labor for $400 flat. There should be no messing with the AC system.

[JRL]

No
However PLEASE buy a Volvo radiator
Yes they cost more, but they're the only ones that actually fit properly

[almostarctic]

Thanks

One more thing

I thought of changing out the upper and lower radiator hoses and the thermostat. Anything else typically changed when the radiator is pulled and replaced?

Cal

[db130]

replacing the upper and lower radiator hoses is a no brainer if you are replacing the radiator, especially if the hoses are as old as the radiator that sprung a leak.

i'd also go ahead and replace the clamps for the hoses, thermostat+coolant temp sensor(if the sensor has never been changed). optional items would be the retaining clips + o rings for the transmission lines

replaced the radiator on my XC by myself 2 summers ago, not too bad of a job. i used an elevated bucket to keep the condenser elevated while the radiator came out from underneath.