Radiator?

CATHERINE1234

MEMBER
1998 HOLDEN COMMODORE
180,000 MILES

I have a VS ute, purchased it 3 weeks ago. This morning there was steam/smoke coming from the motor and the temp went right up. I had a look and the radiator hose had come off and coolant was everywhere. I reattached the hose. Not sure what to do next. When I bought the ute, it had a large bottle of coolant and a bottle of water kept in the back, so I guess it is a recurring problem. It was only serviced 2 weeks ago. Does this mean it needs a whole new radiator?
Cath

6 Replies

MHPAUTOS

MECHANIC
31,938 POSTS

I would be getting it checked for a blown head gasket, it is building up steam pressure normally a sure sign of a head problem

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Tuesday, May 14th, 2013 AT 4:19 AM

CATHERINE1234

MEMBER
3 POSTS

So, they put a new radiator in, still overheating. Said my options are:
1. They replace the head gasket - $1700 (and said this may or may not fix the problem)
2. Second hand motor - $4000
3. I use something like ChemiWeld - $cheaper
I paid $3000 for this car 5 weeks ago, have spent $800 on brakes, disks, service already.
What is your advice?
:( Very disappointed

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Thursday, May 16th, 2013 AT 7:48 PM

MHPAUTOS

MECHANIC
31,938 POSTS

The mechanic cab do a head check, this is a simple and quick chemical test to check for Co in the cooling system, if so you will have a head problem, also make sure that the water pump and thermostat are ok.

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Friday, May 17th, 2013 AT 4:31 PM

MHPAUTOS