(07-10-2026, 11:07 PM)Drea5000 Wrote: What year and what engine do you have on there? I’m curious to what update I know this was posted last year but I just acquired a 1994 351 Coach with the 8V 92 and I am slightly concerned about the radiator so I just wanted to see what did you end up doing? Thank you. I’m also picking up from Texas close to Abilene
1995, coach 375, 8V92T. I ended up pulling the radiator, having it recored in El Paso, While I had the radiator out, I rebuilt the water pump, replaced both thermostats, and new belts, and replaced all the hoses, and of course refilled the radiator with new red antifreeze (34 gallons). Also, while I had everything a part, I did a Simon, steam cleaned the engine and repainted everything back to factory specs. I will say it did look very nice to see that clean engine, new hoses, and I actually painted the tips of the fan red. The biggest hassle was removing the rear center fiberglass section where the radiator access panel is. There are 4 bolts on each side are not easily accessible, and my mine were rusty. Then the aluminum shroud or air box was all riveted together which meant drilling out all those rivets and pulling the shroud out in sections. (Take plenty of pictures before removing anything, unless you have a very good memory) Removing the radiator all 200+ lbs is only held in with 4 bolts (2 on either side at the top) the radiator actually sets down in a craddle on either side. I used a 3500 lb winch strap to lift the radiator, right above the radiator there is a 1 1/4" x 1 1//4" tublar steel support that runs the width of the radiator. I drilled through the support and installed a hook for my winch strap to lift the radiator up enough so I could reach in and pull it back far enough to clear the back of the coach. Make sure you cover the fiberglass with moving blankets before attempting to lif the radiator out. The top and bottom tanks are held in place by 28 bolt on the top and bottom and they can be easily removed. I found a radiator shop in El Paso who replaced the core and tank gaskets for $1875. It took me 69 hours to remove and replace it. Rebuilding the water pump and replacing the thermostats, hoses, belts, and anitfreeze was another $1750, so for around $3700 I had accomplished what I set out to do. Newell wanted roughly 11K and wanted me to bring my coach to Miami, that was not happening.
Thanks to the folks on this site for their valuable insight the task was accomplished and a HUGE savings to my pocket book. The RV park in El Paso was extremely accommodating to allow me to do the work where I was parked, another BIG savings. So, if you don't mind getting dirty and have a decent amount of mechanical skills and the right tools, you can tackle the job and save a lot of money. Just plan ahead, get a radiator shop lined up, get all your parts ahead of time, and get after it. If you have a friend to help that would be GREAT. I would not recommend attempting this by yourself, I had no other choice. If you want, I am available to help guide you along the way.
Good luck and Safe travels,
Jeff
1994 43’ Newell 351 8v92
2005 Alfa gold 39’ Cummins 400 (sold)
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