2010 Alpha. Original Radiator replaced under warranty at 48K. Leak in core not the seam. Replacement Radiator was replaced under extended warranty and lasted till 104K. Crack in plastic above the seam. I replaced it with a non OEM. We'll see how long this one lasts. Next time it will be Aluminium.

 

Testimonial: I think my rad cracked at 60 or 70K miles, Im probably a few pages back in this thread. I replaced it with a SILA brand replacement. I remember it being about $125-150?? Anyways...i just sold my beloved H3 with 111,000 miles and that radiator never let me down. I tow often and offroad a few times a year... Goodluck H3 owners, this forum saved me money with DIY information. I replaced it with a 5.0 4X4 F150 and my wife got a Wrangler... Hope it treats me as good as the H3 or better.

You might see me back here if i find an Alpha with blown engine...i wouldnt mind an LS7 swapped H3...

 

The Delco rad defect final got me at 97K. Nice crack and leaking now. 🙄



Can someone answer why the dealer R&R shop instructions call out labor to recharge the AC due to removing the condenser bolt? Is the condenser attached with the live freon line to the rad or not? All the YouTube vids I watched did not indicate freon loss and need for recharge.

What have you guys done?

 

This Thread is OLD as all get out. You should have just asked a New Question in a New Thread and linked back here if for some unknown reason you think this old dawg is still relevant?????

You do NOT have to disconnect the Condenser from the AC Lines to replace a radiator, there is plenty of slack in the lines to simply lift it up off the Radiator Tabs, hand it and replace the Radiator. It is a pretty easy job with an H3. Like a maybe 4 out of 10. Here is a pic of the condenser hanging out of the way to do my Cam swap in the 09 Alpha so you get the idea......... and this Thread is closed. Start a New one if you have more questions regarding the condenser & radiator.