While my car is apart, it seems I might as well have the radiator checked out (engine and trans are already off at their respective clinics). I've had overheating issues in traffic before, am adding a fan shroud for starters, but want to make sure the radiator's functioning properly.

What should I have a radiator shop look for, and how much should I expect to pay for a checkup -- repair costs notwithstanding? I'm in a very expensive area (outside D.C.).

Also, it's possible that I used 'notwithstanding' incorrectly. My apologies.

Ed.

A good shop should tell you all you need to know. They should offer a price up front for pressure testing for core integerity and boiling the core out. If the core can't be cleaned and put back into service a good shop should offer you several options, one of which is having your rad re-cored. The bottom line is it should cost you very little for them to tell you if it can be reused or not or if it needs work or to be pitched in the trash.

Gotcha. Thank you. I can't afford to replace every part of this car, but I'll be honest, part of me would not be disappointed if this radiator was trashed. I'd go to a heavier duty one. But if it ain't broke, I can't afford to fix it, you know?

Thanks.
Ed.