Opel Corsa B 1993–2000 Service and Repair Manual: Radiator - removal, inspection and refitting

Removal

Note: The radiator can be removed with the cooling fan still attached, but due to the limited space available care must be taken to avoid damaging the radiator If preferred, the cooling fan may be removed first, as described in Section 6, to provide greater access.

If leakage is the reason for wanting to remove the radiator, bear in mind that minor leaks can be often be cured using a proprietry radiator sealant, with the radiator in situ.

1. Drain the cooling system, and disconnect the battery earth terminal.

2. Slacken the retaining clips and detach the radiator top and bottom hoses and also the smaller diameter expansion tank vent hose.

3. Disconnect the two electrical leads at the thermal switch on the side of the radiator.

4. If the cooling fan is still in position, disconnect the electrical leads at the multi-plug adjacent to the fan motor. Release the cable clips securing the wiring harness to the fan cowl bracket and move the harness to one side.

5. On automatic transmission models equipped with a fluid cooler, disconnect and plug the cooler lines at the radiator side tank.

Be prepared for fluid spillage, and take care not to allow dirt to enter the cooler lines.

6. Remove the radiator mounting bolts (one on each side at the top). Carefully lift out the radiator, with fan and shroud if not previously removed.

Inspection

7. With the radiator assembly removed it is easier to examine for leaks which will show up as corroded stains. Permanent repairs with this type of radiator are not possible due to the light alloy and plastic composition. A proprietary sealant compound may be tried, but it is better to renew a defective assembly.

8. Clean out the inside of the radiator by flushing, and also clean the matrix, removing all the dead flies and bugs which reduce the radiator's efficiency. Take this opportunity to inspect the hoses and clips, making sure that all are fit for further use.

Refitting

9. Refitting the radiator is the reverse of the removal procedure. Check that the rubber mountings are in good condition and ensure that the bottom location pegs fit correctly on installation. On completion, refill the cooling system and, on automatic transmission models, check the transmission fluid level and top-up if necessary.