Griffin Thermal Products General Radiator Installation Tips

 

These are general guidelines for installing your Griffin radiator. Please refer to your vehicle’s Owner’s Manual or a Certified Mechanic for any specific instructions. Failure to follow these guidelines may void the Manufacturer’s Warranty.

1. Before any installation, please check the following:

a. Unbox the radiator and inspect for any damage that may have happened during shipping. If there is any damage, notify the seller and shipping company immediately. Save the box and all of the packaging. Do not attempt to install a radiator that has shipping damage.
b. Make sure that all ordered accessories are included in the box.
i. The drain petcock will be taped to the top inside flap of the box.
ii. Wiring harnesses, overflow tank and cap (if ordered) will be in separate boxes placed with the radiator.
iii. The packing list will have all items contained in the shipment.
c. Compare the old radiator with the new one. If the Griffin Radiator is an Exact Fit, make sure that it matches the old radiator (size, inlet/outlet configuration, etc.). If the radiator is a Performance Fit or Universal Fit, does the size and configuration match what was ordered?

2. Do any other parts of the cooling system need to be replaced? Please check the hoses, clamps, thermostat, etc. and replace as needed.

3. Does your coolant system require a complete flush? If the engine block is contaminated with rust and/or other debris, it will be transferred to the new radiator if the system isn’t flushed prior to installing the new unit. Installing a new radiator without cleaning the system will dramatically impact the life of the radiator.

4. If you are installing a Combination Unit (electric fans), you will have to remove your mechanical fan prior to installing the new Combination Unit.

5. When placing the new radiator into the car:

a. Make sure that the radiator does not “bind” as it is being installed in the vehicle.
b. Make sure that the radiator does not “twist” as it is placed into the radiator supports. If the core supports are out of alignment (front-to-back or side-to-side), the radiator will twist to match the supports and could fail prematurely.
c. Use rubber supports and mounts wherever possible. That will help isolate the radiator from shocks due to road hazards, etc.
d. When mounting into a bottom cradle mount, it is best to add a firm rubber strip to the entire bottom of the support. Supporting a radiator the entire width of the bottom will help reduce any stress points and failure.
e. Do not over-tighten the radiator to the vehicle frame. f. If you are installing our temperature sender, do not add any sealant or tape to the fitting. The sender already has sealant applied to the threads.

6. If not using a “premix” antifreeze, use only distilled water. Using tap or well water will void the warranty.

Please see our web page for Warranty details: Click Here

If you have any questions, please contact our Technical Department at 1-800-722-3723.

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