Radiator Replacement

[mLuMaN83]

Long time no see, everyone. Busy busy. Seems like it's time for a new radiator. Been chasing a bad leak for awhile now near the expansion tank. Just replaced the ET with a new OEM and she's still leaking. I'm pretty sure it's the radiator leaking coolant at this point. It seems to leak heavily once a lot of pressure is built up in the system. I did a cooling overhaul 50k ago so I should still be ok there. Question being is there anything else I should replace while I'm in there? New drain plug? ???

[Vas]

I would get the radiator and then a new expansion tank bracket. It is bolted to the radiator and the expansion tank sits on it. Not necessary but a good idea

[mLuMaN83]

Yeah I was thinking about doing that as well.

[brettbimmer]

If not replacing hoses, try to get new o-rings for connections which you will be separating while replacing the radiator. Tough to find the sizing as I don't think they are listed separately on realoem.com.

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[John in VA]

Lots of info on cooling system replacement at the following link: http://www.e46mango.com/2017/05/bmw-e46-cooling-overheating-diy-guide.html

You can get some of the o-rings needed without purchasing new parts. Unfortunately, P'bucket's recent policy change killed many of the photos:
http://forum.e46fanatics.com/showthread.php?t=906997

[mLuMaN83]

Welp, replaced leaking radiator, expansion tank, and expansion tank bracket. Still leaking like a mother. Stumped right now. It seem to be leaking from the expansion tank side. Hose possibly. Looks like I need to get it back up and build up some pressure and look from below. I love this car... I hate this car!

:facepalm:facepalm:facepalm:facepalm:facepalm:face palm:facepalm:facepalm:facepalm

[johnrando]

bummer. you'll find it.

[mLuMaN83]

Looks like water pump failure! I was freaking out hoping that a previous overheat didn't hit the head. I couldn't see the leak but and it was dripping like a mad man. The water pump looked dry from inspection but I couldn't see very well. I shoved a paper towel underneath the water pump and it immediately filled with coolant and stopped the dripping. To make sure it wasn't coming from somewhere else, I shoved a paper towel above the water pump and bone dry.

Sigh of relief here.

[johnrando]

Phew!