Mark V1 radiator removal

[Andy Collett]

I am just starting work to remove the radiator from my car and wondered whether anyone had any comments, tips, or advice (apart from don't do it!).
I am using the workshop manual, which appears relatively straightforward - but don't they always.

[Christopher Carnley]

Andy,

The author of that page has done it before (!) and has it spot on.

Use ordinary thin oil on the threads as WD40 us far too thin, and apply lots of patience.

The rad is a lot heavier than you may think.

[John Robins]

Stupid question, for what reason are you removing the radiator? Do you really really need to?

BTW Christopher is right, they are heavy.

Cheers
John

[Stephen Blakey]

I sent this to a pal in 2018 along with advice to use his engine crane to lift the rad, which was greeted with skepticism. He said afterwards that he was very pleased he had followed that advice.

I've a feeling the piece below came from the RROC AU and hope they don't mind it appearing here. There's only a handful of people look at this forum so I think we're safe.


Removal of Radiator, Bentley R-Type.
The radiator is secured by one large longitudinal bolt at its base centre, and by the mudguard
setscrews under the wings.
Hint: be sure at all times that the bonnet handles are full rotated to the open position, around
27= degrees from the closed position (handles facing backwards horizontally when closed)
1) Loosen the single bonnet retaining nut protruding on its bracket on the centre top of
the bulkhead. The hinge bracket on the bonnet hinge itself is slotted, so removal of
the retaining bolt is a disadvantage as the bonnet will simply lift upwards if the bolt
and nut are loosened a little only..
2) Holding the bonnet handles and supporting the centre hinge, lift the rear of the bonnet
and slide the assembly towards the rear of the car. Lift the bonnet clear. NOTE take
care not to lose the bronze bush insert in the front support attached to the top of the
grille.
3) From underneath the front of the car, remove the ribbed centre front valence plate
(about 40 cm x 25 cm and painted the colour of the car) which connects the
mudguards together (7/16 nuts and bolts between the guards and valence and between
the valence and grille).
4) Remove sufficient mudguard setscrews to allow the mudguards to swing out enough
to remove the radiator safely. Some of these screws have sheared, but there are
presently enough to hold the wings tight.
5) Disconnect the two radiator hoses.
6) From the front of the radiator, remove the large centre bolt at the base of the radiator.
7) Lift the radiator upwards, complete with the grille, clear of the guards etc.
Remove the core for replacement
I usually use a little Loctite Nickel Anti-sieze when reassembling the radiator and car.
July 21, 2003