Replace Radiator Support

[SexyDSM95]

Okay guys, I bought the car with a kinked/bent lowe radiator support. Don't worry I have not overheated and my frame is not bent. (When I stomp on the gas there is no pull) I was told I could not just replace the lower, I had to in fact, replace the core. I found the core for a decent price just need to know the level of difficulty and what is involved. Having a bent lower radiator support is causing:

1. Hood does not to shut right/flush
2. Passenger side fender panel sticks out
3. Since fender sticks out, if the passenger door is opened all the way the side molding pops off
4. The end cap of the side skirt does not sit flush or all the way

From what I have read/asked I have to drain my radiator fluid, take off my front end, and there are three large bolts that hold the core together? Just seeing if anyone has done this and could help me out thanks guys!

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[volcom121]

Its not that hard. You might have to drop your sub frame bar that goes front to back, and pull the radiator out too.

 

[SexyDSM95]

Its not that hard. You might have to drop your sub frame bar that goes front to back, and pull the radiator out too.

So time wise for a girl who might get SOME help. A weekend?

 

[chorpie]

i'm sure that you could do it in a weekend, assuming that you've got all the right tools and say, a Chilton's guide or something similar to show you what you need to remove? Or you could grab some people from your Philly DSM club to come help out.

 

[mazenb9981]

Isnt the radiator support needs to be welded??? or at least the factory one is??

 

[chorpie]

I thought that it was bolted on.

 

[mazenb9981]

Any body can give instructions on how to change the radiator support? Any body has done it on a 2G? Or does it need a body shop??? Thanks

 

[SexyDSM95]

I was just told by a body shop it was to be spot welded. So I am guessing that means it has to be welded not bolted on.

 

[Sinner]

Yes, the radiator support needs to be welded on it is a structural part of a unibody car.