Radiator - How To Keep Your Cool When Replacing

[USA-RVNomads]

Recently we had to replace our 2004 38' HR Ambassador's radiator.

If you find yourself needing to replace your radiator make sure you shop around for a replacement. Monaco wanted $6500.00 plus there was a seven week wait to get one. The repair facility which replaced ours (Texas Custom Coach in Pipe Creek, TX) found one from another vendor for $1800.00 which was shipped right away.

It was an exact match and it was solid aluminum not a plastic/aluminum composite as the OEM unit was.

So if you're needing a major component replacement, it pays to shop around to with other suppliers other than the rig's mfr. I was able to have the radiator replaced, transmission serviced and engine oil/filters changed for less than half of the price Monaco quoted just for the replacement radiator.

[FIRE UP]

Originally Posted by ImagesByHawk

Recently we had to replace our 2004 38' HR Ambassador's radiator.

If you find yourself needing to replace your radiator make sure you shop around for a replacement. Monaco wanted $6500.00 plus there was a seven week wait to get one. The repair facility which replaced ours (Texas Custom Coach in Pipe Creek, TX) found one from another vendor for $1800.00 which was shipped right away.

It was an exact match and it was solid aluminum not a plastic/aluminum composite as the OEM unit was.

So if you're needing a major component replacement, it pays to shop around to with other suppliers other than the rig's mfr. I was able to have the radiator replaced, transmission serviced and engine oil/filters changed for less than half of the price Monaco quoted just for the replacement radiator.

When I did ours, about 4 years ago, Freightliner wanted $1,750 for the factory plastic/aluminum one and, like yours, it was over a 7 day waiting period before it shipped. The shop that where I was going to have mine fixed said, "don't buy one of those, too much money and, not worth it. Here's what we can do for you". Within about 45 seconds on his computer, he brought up a copper/brass one, the same exact shape and size, for $1,200. And, it could be at his shop, THE NEXT DAY.

It was there, the next day. I installed it and, it's been working flawlessly ever since. And, there is absolutely ZERO difference in cooling temps, reflected on the gauge. So, yes, it does pay to look around.
Scott

[Dutch Star Don]

I needed one in 2010 for my Monaco Diplomat. I searched all the country and the best price was about $3K. I asked for help on the forums and one of the guys that was always a wealth of information, turned me onto a company that was selling Monaco overstock that they bought after Monaco closed.

I ended up getting a pallet that contained a new radiator (improved mounting over my old one) charge air cooler. engine shroud (huge) and trans cooler for $695.00 and $175.00 in shipping. It took a week to wipe the smile off of my face, especially getting a new CAC as part of the deal.

[FIRE UP]

Originally Posted by Dutch Star Don

I needed one in 2010 for my Monaco Diplomat. I searched all the country and the best price was about $3K. I asked for help on the forums and one of the guys that was always a wealth of information, turned me onto a company that was selling Monaco overstock that they bought after Monaco closed.

I ended up getting a pallet that contained a new radiator (improved mounting over my old one) charge air cooler. engine shroud (huge) and trans cooler for $695.00 and $175.00 in shipping. It took a week to wipe the smile off of my face, especially getting a new CAC as part of the deal.

Hey Don,
That was one "smokin" deal for sure. You got lucky on that one.
Scott