We need to replace the radiator.

BAJAS_GIRL

MEMBER
1996 PLYMOUTH NEON
250,000 MILES

Our car has been over heating on a regular basis. We have tried various leak "fixes" to no avail. We have decided to replace the radiator. Because of the age of the car (& our financial situation - we are both on disability), we decided to try to get a used part. When we looked at the radiators that we are told will fit this car, they are easily 1/3 bigger than what is in the car. The core dimensions of the radiator in the car no are 15" wide by 11" tall by 5/8" deep. We have been told, & the other radiators we have looked at, that a radiator with dimension of 11 3/4" x 23" x 5/8" (i'm not sure what order these are in, sorry) will fit the car. We did measure the space & it will fit. So, I guess my question is, is the current radiator the wrong one? & If we get the right radiator, do we also need to add a fan +/or put in a different shroud (the current shroud id # is 4546707, & the MOPAR part # for the radiator is AA422130-7212 with "730" printed above it)? Is there anything else we need to know or do? We really need this car for at least another year! Thanx! For any help/advice you can give us. Peace, jimmy & lori

1 Reply

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

MECHANIC
109,747 POSTS

Hi Guys:

As far as the radiator is concerned, they came from the factory with different sizes based on if you got HD cooling. As far as the one in the vehicle, chances are it is correct too. However, since the other was part of an option, it should bolt right in.

Now the case of the shroud is a different story. If your shroud was designed for a smaller radiator, chances are it won't bolt up for you. However, before you get a different one, check to confirm what I said.