Radiator swap

[ajnabi]

Hi people, got a couple of questions on radiators,

My radiator part number is: 8D0 121 251 AT (630x414mm) ,which at the moment leaks on unpredictable occasions.

Can someone confirm that this radiator DOES NOT use a radiator fan thermo switch!

Is it possible to replace this radiator with 8D0 121 251 P (630x398mm), which does have a slot for a radiator fan thermo switch, and is a bit shorter in height?

TIA

[pugboy]

You could bung the hole if it doesn't have a sensor, but obviously its a bodge. How much does it save?

Wont it be held in place at the top as well though?

[daz60932]

The AT does not have a fan switch, Whereas the P DOES have a switch as you correctly stated.

You can use the P along with a seal and blocking piece (not expensive). As for fitting there are no issues, the AT and P will both bolt straight in with no problems!

[ajnabi]

OK, old/original (8D0 121 251 AT) radiator is out.

Can clearly see now there will probably be a problem installing the new radiator (8D0 121 251 P) as the new one is twice as 'thick' as the old.

I've got AC (climatronic ?) hence have a condensor which fits infront of the radiator (approx. the same thickness), so looks like I'm going to have to pay ~125 GBP to the local VW dealer for part number 8D0 121 251 AT.

[meriafel]

Seems reasonable for a new VW rad. There was an issue with the original rad which I experienced on my 52 TDi Estate. It used to dump a half to a litre of coolant when it reached a certain temp from the offside lower corner. Took an overnight pressure test to identify so you are as well to be rid of it.

Take care when removing the condenser. Mine was replaced recently following a badger hit and cost £400 ex. fitting and recharging!! The original was badly oxydised beneath its black paint coating and was what I consider to have been poorly constructed as it already had its lower fins and steel strip detached and retained with a plastic tie as VW would not cover a warranty claim as it was still working! They did kindly pay for the plastic tie and its fitting.

The replacement condenser seems to have a plated 'gold coloured' finish and seems more robust. Insurer fortunately picked up the tab.

The following is of interest. Rang a Stealer locally who quoted £80+ Vat for an aircon recharge on my son's 98 Passat TDi, but added it would need a further £80+ Vat for a dye to be inserted to check for any leaks!

Inchcape in Shrewsbury who I have had excellent service from quoted £89.95 for an air con service to include the dye and a recharge. You pays your money and you takes your choice. Anyone had other quotes for this work??

[Waitey]

Just had mine done for £50 including the dye, it was a friend of a friend who did it though, cash in hand, had to meet him at 7.00am before his boss got in. I dont know why its extra for the dye as they put it in at the same time as re-gassing. He also put some lubricant in.

The last time i had it done it didnt work properly (wont get it done there again), this time seems to be fine.

[meriafel]

Will let you know how we get on. The car is a 1998 TDi Sport 110 and as far as we know has never been recharged. It is always on AUTO, and in France in 2003 and 2004 worked so well in temps up to 42 degrees would have frozen your feet! Hope we haven't got a major leak needing a new compressor etc.