How to Replace a Radiator in a 1998 Buick LeSabre

Radiator failures lead to engine overheating, coolant leaks and sometimes can cause transmission problems. The radiator in your 1998 Buick LeSabre is easy to replace--no engine components get in the way, and bleeding the system is a simple process. Most auto-parts stores will carry replacement radiators, but you might get a better deal from a radiator shop. Some radiator shops sell repaired units at lower prices and offer a discount in exchange for your bad radiator.

Instructions

1

Drain the coolant into a drain pan. The drain plug is on the backside of the radiator.

2

Remove the upper bolts from cooling fan. A panel holds the top of the radiator in place. Remove it.

3

Disconnect all clamped coolant lines from the radiator by squeezing the tabs of the clamps with a pair of pliers and pulling the hoses free.

4

Unplug the electrical connector on the cooling fan. Unscrew the transmission cooler lines from the bottom of the radiator with a wrench.

5

Pull the radiator upward out of the engine compartment and unbolt and remove the cooling fan. Install the fan on the replacement radiator and slide the radiator into place. Reconnect the transmission lines, plug in the radiator and attach the coolant hoses. Replace the upper radiator cover and upper fan bolts.

6

Replace the coolant through the radiator cap and leave the cap off. Turn the air conditioning on and start the engine. Idle the engine until the radiator hose is hot. This means that the thermostat is open. Rev the engine to 3,000 RPM and let it return to idle at least five times to bleed any trapped air. Refill the radiator and replace the cap. Once the engine is cold, fill the coolant tank to the "FULL COLD" line.