I need to replace my radiator, but I can't find any DIYs, does this mean its suggested to have it taken to a shop to do it, or is it just that easy?

:Edit:

also needing to replace my bumper reinforcement, I've been told it could be welded on and I've also been told its just some bolts.

any info would be helpful

thanks in advance.

 

buy or download a service manual. everything you need to know. no hear-say. no bullshit. it's honestly the best advice i can give you.

 

I do have a set of service manuals for your car if you are interested they are in brand new condition they cover, civic 2006 to 2010.

I bought them when I had my last si which was last year at this time.

I paid 125 for them give me a 100 and they are yours shipped, these are the same manuals they use at the dealer by Helms.

I also have a set of manuals in the same new condition for a 2004 civic if you know someone who could use them.

 

sounds like you hit something or someone hit you from the front. you would need to take your bumper off to see the full extent of the damage. the bumper support isn't welded on. you can actually buy the bumper supports and their mounts through honda.

 

Yeah I ran into a truck with a trailer hitch that just so happen to be the exact height of my reinforcement. I consider myself lucky though.

Thats the answer I was hoping for, I was worried it was going to be spot welded.

I'm also looking for an 06+ EX bumper, and should I got with an OEM radiator and condenser or should I shoot for aftermarket?

 

that's up to you based on your budget. surely the aftermarket radiators will be cheaper, but nothing beats oem fitment. i wouldnt be able to tell you how aftermarket radiators will hold up compared to oem because ive never had to replace one for a comparison. looks like oem is $250 and aftermarkets are around the $100 range.

 

Hey man,

It's honestly not too difficult of a procedure- if you possess a decent tool box and marginal mechanical skills then you should be able to complete the entire process within a few hours.

Here's a succinct D.I.Y article for replacing the radiator on a '07 Civic:


1) Make sure you have the anti-theft code for the radio or the navigation system, and then write down the audio presets.

2) Disconnect the negative cable from the battery, and then disconnect the positive cable.

3) Remove the battery.

4) Drain the engine coolant.

5) Remove the bulkhead cover.

6) Disconnect the fan motor connectors and hood switch connector, and remove the harness clamps.

7) Remove the reservoir hose, radiator cap base mounting bolts, clips, and radiator upper brackets.

8) Disconnect the upper and lower radiator hoses.

9) Remove the splash shield.

10) Disconnect the Engine Coolant Temperature (ECT) sensor 2 connector, and remove the harness clamp.

11) Remove the condenser bracket mounting bolts and the bulkhead.

12) Pull up the radiator, and then remove the fan shroud assemblies and other parts from the radiator.


--Installation--


1) Install the radiator in the reverse order of removal. Make sure the upper and lower cushions are set securely.

2) Install the bulkhead in the reverse order of removal. Apply body paint to the bulkhead mounting bolts.

3) Fill the radiator with engine coolant and bleed the air.



*diagram courtesy of hondapartsnow.com; all rights reserved

 

Thanks man, thats what I was looking for.


But as far as my A/C condenser, am I gonna have to do anything special other than slap it on?

 

slap it on and put in new freon. if you want to be thorough, replace the receiver dryer as well but that isnt necessary.
if you went into a truck, make sure nothing is hitting/touching the radiator and that you have clearance room because you might puncture the radiator under normal driving conditions.

 

I've already got my koyo radiator on the way, just wondering if I can buy an off brand condenser and have everything match up that was stock.

 

Any ideas? Should I just buy an OEM or can I get away with an aftermarket?

 

I had an aftermarket condensor in my '08 Si and it went in just fine.

 

Did you have to get it serviced after putting it on?