Time to change out the radiator on this bad boy and while I've seen some tips/instructions from fellow DIYrs AND looking over the RAVE manual on the topic, I was wondering what definitive things I should or should not do-

Are there steps in the Rave I can skip? I'd prefer not to mess with oil coolers, etc if I dont have to

Thanks to all of you who have tread this path before me, as I understand its a quite trying endeavour-

 

No, there are no short cuts, read the Rave and and follow the 2 pages of directions. Make sure to replace your old t/stat with a new 180 degree soft spring model as well as a new coolant cap.

 

And be sure that screws used are not going to go too far and poke hole in radiator tank. Do all your reverse flushing of system, heater core, etc. before you put in the new thermostat.

 

My biggest tip is to learn the proper way to get the "scrivets" out. They drove me nuts. I think you pull up on them as you unscrew. I killed a few of them. Also, the oil coolers are simple so don't worry about those. Push in the clips while you pull back. Be sure when putting back on the click in tight. I had one pop off when I restarted once for the trans, and it made a mess plus then had to go under to refill trans a bit.