I need to replace the rad on my 2004 1.2 Non A/C.
My questions is , how difficult is it to diconnect the bottom hose connection?
Does anyone have any helpfull tips on getting the so called "quick release" elbow to actually release?
Would it be a good idea to buy a replacement "quick release" elbow as a back up before starting the job, as i have heard they can be a sod to remove intact?
Thanks in advance
Tony

Yes, cut it off. Micro disc cutters will dismiss these in seconds. I have a Black and Decker version of a Dremmel. I have personally never found them to be reusable. I have taken a couple off my Panda recently and they have come apart with a tug and twist from pliers. Even a junior hacksaw does the job, though I cant remember how difficult it is to get access sitting here. I have to say my obsession with stripping down domestic appliances before disposal does mean I have a bucket full of jubilee clips , so I am biased!

I replaced my rad a few weeks ago, and found it easier to disconnect the hoses from the other end, and left the quick release couplings on the rad.

When it was out on the floor, it was much easier to get a screwdriver to push clips in and remove couplings.

Refitted couplings to new rad with new jubilee clips, fitted it in place, then reconnected the hoses to the engine with new jubilee clips, job done.

However I'd suggest you check the condition of the hoses, especially the ends where they clamp on to the pipework, as one of mine looked a bit ragged (from rad to thermostat, stat end looked like it had been leaking very slightly where the rubber had started to split underneath the original hose clamp), so I ordered a new hose before I started.

Standard jubilee clips can be too wide at 12mm, but search eBay for "narrow band worm clip" and you'll find some at 9mm - very similar to the low profile bands used by car factories.

Here we go. They 9mm and 12mm widths available.

https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Genuine-...hash=item2c7f4cb387:m:mZW_Q3QdTNToaeFncMr06Yw

Haynes manual is telling me that I need to remove the front bumper to do the job.
Is it possible to change the rad without removing the front bumper?
Thanks
Tony

To be honest the bumper is easy to remove so its well worth the bother. You also get chance to clean any rusting threads and treat with anti seize before they go solid and shear off.