Radiator leak repair or replace?

[Piscator]

My S2 radiator is leaking at the top seam above the core, engine side. Would members recommend repairing (with re-core) or replacing with new?

Can the radiator be removed and replaced without removing the bonnet?

Thank you for your views,

John

[tim wood]

Can’t answer your question on repair or replace
But it can be removed and replaced ( with care) whilst the bonnet is in place. My suggestion is to protect the core with thick cardboard during the process.

Tim

[mgcjag]

Get it repaired.....Steve

[Gfhug]

If you disconnect the bonnet strut (or springs) you can let the bonnet open wider to give you better access. Let the bonnet rest on thick cushions or similar.
I’ve heard good reports for NAR in Northampton for rebuilds, not used them myself.

Geoff

[Piscator]

Thanks, Tim, just what I hoped to hear.

Steve, thanks, I will go with that. There shouldn't be any issues over fitting!

Geoff, good advice, thank you.

Regards
John

[44DHR]

As part of my winter service this year, I went all through the cooling system, replacing all hoses and getting the radiator re-cored by NAR.
I spoke to Andy Hornby there and he could not have been more helpful. The job was skilfully done with a quick turnaround and very well packed.
As my radiator was the original one, I requested the original Northampton Autorads manufacturers plate was retained, which they duly did.
I removed the radiator with the bonnet on and once the header tank and mounting bracket was removed, by putting cardboard protection on the radiator, it was lifted out ok.
Regards,
Dave

[Piscator]

Hi,Dave,

Thanks for your post and advice. At first glance, I thought my radiator was different from yours, then realised your car is a S1 (the clue was there---header tank!)

I will certainly contact Andy at NAR.

Thanks again, Dave
Regards, john