A4 B5 TDi (AFN) rad swap

[gjm123]

It's the usual thing - fix one thing and two more pop up.

This time it's what appears to be a leaking rad. While replacing the indicator bulbs I noticed a cloudy deposit on the cam cover which easily wiped away. Strange. Then I saw the middle, as in top to bottom, or the rad appeared a darker colour than the rest and closer inspection showed it to be damp. Sure enough, coolant level has also dropped slightly.

Plenty of options for a replacement - s/n, aftermarket genuine, etc, but other than ensuring that the fittings are the same (there is the option of jubilee clips or 'the other ones' whose name I don't recall) are there any guidelines for a rad swap?

And of course - coolant. I'll obviously be needing some. Is it essential to use genuine VAG? I've been using Comma XStream Green Extralife without problem, although the coolant in the Audi was put in by a very nice forum member in N. London when he changed my cambelt and associated parts.

TIA.

(Once that's done I'll have a look at the clutch release bearing... )

[adamss24]

It's the usual thing - fix one thing and two more pop up.

This time it's what appears to be a leaking rad. While replacing the indicator bulbs I noticed a cloudy deposit on the cam cover which easily wiped away. Strange. Then I saw the middle, as in top to bottom, or the rad appeared a darker colour than the rest and closer inspection showed it to be damp. Sure enough, coolant level has also dropped slightly.

Plenty of options for a replacement - s/n, aftermarket genuine, etc, but other than ensuring that the fittings are the same (there is the option of jubilee clips or 'the other ones' whose name I don't recall) are there any guidelines for a rad swap?

And of course - coolant. I'll obviously be needing some. Is it essential to use genuine VAG? I've been using Comma XStream Green Extralife without problem, although the coolant in the Audi was put in by a very nice forum member in N. London when he changed my cambelt and associated parts.

TIA.

(Once that's done I'll have a look at the clutch release bearing... )

Hi mate, is your white quattro still running strong ? You will need to take the front bumper off then the rad is easy to remove. Buy 2 new wire clips for the hoses and a good Nissens rad from ECP should cost you about 60 quid + VAT... they are the same for 4 cylinder engines...

[gjm123]

Hi mate, is your white quattro still running strong ? You will need to take the front bumper off then the rad is easy to remove. Buy 2 new wire clips for the hoses and a good Nissens rad from ECP should cost you about 60 quid + VAT... they are the same for 4 cylinder engines...

It's a great car - I'm really happy with it despite the work I'm putting in on it! I've just replaced all the rear suspension - polybushes, new genuine Audi springs and shocks... Sorted. Need to check the rear wheel bearings but I suspect they need tweaking rather than replacing.

The engine is fine - just need to keep it cool. May look at some nozzles and a remap.

Thanks for the tips. The bumper is an easy one to sort. Found a new genuine Audi rad for £100 and may spend the bit extra... But I have no problem with Nissens. Good kit. And the ~£40 saving would be useful right now.

Looking into some A8 17s to go on it too - the tyres will need changing in a month or two anyway.