1997 GMC Jimmy Radiator blowing gaskets

1997 GMC JIMMY
105,000 MILES • 6 CYL • 4WD • AUTOMATIC
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ASHERDUMORT
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I am currently in a dispute with an auto repair shop. Under his recommandeation, I replaced the radiator in my Jimmy, not that there was an issue but he said it was old. Immediately after the replacement, the intake manifold, then a few hours later, the head gaskets were blown. His technician told me at the time that the new radiator had stronger flow and higher pressure and this blew the gaskets. The chief mechanic of the shop disputes this now. My question is, is it possible that what the technician said was correct and replacing an old radiator could increase system pressure and blow the gaskets? Thank yoy in advance for your reply
Oct 20, 2010 at 4:43 PM
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RASMATAZ
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Hi Asherdumort, Welcome to 2carpros and TY for the donation

My question is, is it possible that what the technician said was correct and replacing an old radiator could increase system pressure and blow the gaskets?

I don't think so, there something else that caused it-such as the thermostat, water pump, airlock and external leak -Its a brand new radiator the flow should increase better-You need to do something about it don't let them get over on you and don't go there anymore
Oct 20, 2010 at 4:53 PM
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ASHERDUMORT
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I neglected to mention in my original queation that the thermostat was replaced by the same shop 3 months previoulsy when had the colling system flushed ( by them), which was why I was there the second time. The engine light came on. The car was operating normally in all respects, no evidence of a leak, no overheating, no loss of performance, nothing. They replaced the thermostat as well as the radiator and the intake manifold gaskets blew jsut when they finished the job ( and I paid). Their own diagnostics showed no evidence fomr the car's computer of any gasket issue.
Oct 21, 2010 at 4:36 PM
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RASMATAZ
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Something caused it to blow the IM gasket-is the fan clutch working the way it supposed to? New radiator could be clogged-up for who knows
Oct 21, 2010 at 7:21 PM
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