Radiator Replacement - Do I need to remove bonnet/hood

[inca]

Hi

I have a series 2 E-Type and would like to find out whether it is necessary to remove the bonnet/hood of the car if I am going to take out the radiator to be sent away for recoring.

Many thanks

Mark

[1954Etype]

Hi

I have a series 2 E-Type and would like to find out whether it is necessary to remove the bonnet/hood of the car if I am going to take out the radiator to be sent away for recoring.

Many thanks

Mark

Mark

no. But your back will hurt!

Angus

[inca]

Thanks Angus. Oh dear need to try not to give myself back ache as it might affect how well I can now limbo dance when trying to access the elctrics under the steering wheel! I was more concerned on enough clearance so I don't hit and dent the bonnet when lifting it out! Is the clearance OK as the Haynes manual tells me to take the bonnet off!

[kingzetts]

I removed and refitted the radiator of my S1 twice recently with the bonnet in place (took the supplier two goes to repair a leak in the new radiator I fitted during restoration). As Angus says it puts a strain on your back but is perfectly do-able with care.

Some suggestions (none of which I followed, I might add, but probably would if I did it again).

First, if you can rope in a willing assistant, do so as on the way out especially the radiator is quite heavy (it will most likely still contain some water even if it seems to be fully drained).

Second, place some padding/protection over the top of the engine and other places where edges may snag on the way out.

Third, jack up the front of the car, tie the bonnet to the safety catch on the bulkhead with some rope, undo the bonnet stay, slacken the rope and swing the bonnet forward carefully so it is vertical (jacking it up allows the nose to fall further without hitting the floor) as this will massively improve access without having to remove the bonnet.