Many people recommend having a radiator reconditioned instead of replacing it. It is said that the benefits of reconditioning is primarily the low cost of doing so.
Things to consider in reconditioning your radiator may include:
- Testing the radiator and determine whether it has any leaks – if it does these need to be fixed;
- Cleaning out the radiator, and stripping down the parts;
- Resoldering the radiator tank and the filler neck;
- Straightening the fins on the radiator.
While the costs of reconditioning are low, the disadvantages are that reconditioned radiators have a short life span, and installation and removal of the radiator adds cost.