Radiator Support

swamper8 · Aug 15th, 2005, 01:53 PM

Vehicle: 1995 Nissan Altima

I recently replaced the clutch in this vehicle. When I removed the engine/tranny cross member, I found that the middle/lower side of the radiator support was rusted out. (Right where the cross member bolts to it) I bought a new radiator support and I'm in the process of installing it. I'm doing this whole job as side work and I'm going to be paid for it. However I can't even begin to estimate what a professional would charge to replace a radiator support. It's no easy job as I had to paint the new support and also break many spot welds on the original support before it could be removed from the vehicle. Are there any body guys or claims adjusters who visit this forum? I need a guestimate as to what a body shop would charge to remove/replace the radiator support in an Altima. Thanks

KA24Tech · Aug 18th, 2005, 03:22 PM

I don't have the Crash Estimating Guide at home but the support R&R time is usually around 5 hours plus an hour for refinishing. I would check with a local body shop or Vo-Tech school that has a Auto Collision program for more definite info.

Troy

JonathanD · Aug 24th, 2005, 01:43 AM

It costs $900-$1000. Go on, ask me how I know...

I hate rust.

mrnoname · Aug 24th, 2005, 09:19 AM

i had my civic's radiator support replaced and the labor was 300. i bought my support from a junk yard.....lol

swamper8 · Aug 25th, 2005, 06:06 AM

I got a estimate from a body shop across the street from my job. They said anywhere from $300 (weld on a plate) to replacing the whole piece for around $1000. So I believe both of you ha ha. I wound up buying a brand new core support from VENG USA for $109 and I charged the lady $400 to put it in the car. It took about 10 hours and was quite the miserable experience.

mrnoname · Aug 25th, 2005, 10:52 AM

i believe it. i wouldnt attempt. to much of a bitch. plus i cant weld...

**Asleep** · Aug 26th, 2005, 05:50 PM

im getting mine done for the price of the support and a 12 pack. having a g/f with professional bodymen as brothers is kickass.

mrnoname · Aug 26th, 2005, 08:29 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by AsleepAltima

im getting mine done for the price of the support and a 12 pack. having a g/f with professional bodymen as brothers is kickass.

i now envy you

**Asleep** · Aug 26th, 2005, 08:45 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by mrnoname

i now envy you

you mean you now envy me MORE.

mrnoname · Aug 28th, 2005, 01:28 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by AsleepAltima

you mean you now envy me MORE.

yes sir your alty runs

mine dont

94altimase · Sep 3rd, 2005, 03:56 PM

I have this same problem my radiator support is rusted right where the crossmember bolts on to it. do you think its a better idea just to weld a plate across the entire thing or just replace the entire radiator support?

mrnoname · Sep 4th, 2005, 09:57 AM

this is a common problem for altimas, and i suggest replacing it. i do not recommened a "quick fix". its not all to expensive.

94altimase · Sep 4th, 2005, 02:16 PM

alrite i'm looking to change out my clutch as well since the radiator support is rusted the cross member wouldn't bolt back up can i just leave it when when i put the new clutch in?

**Asleep** · Sep 4th, 2005, 02:26 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by mrnoname

yes sir your alty runs

mine dont

actually, it doesnt...

http://www.nissanclub.com/forums/sho...d.php?t=201659

94altimase · Sep 4th, 2005, 03:08 PM

so can i leave it out?