Does anyone have the procedures to remove the bumper cover and clean the radiators on a 2003 C2?

 

Did you try searching for it? Also try renntech.org and rennlist.com.

 

pm me.

 

There is a DIY on Renntech that walks you through removal of the front bumper from there it's pretty self explanatory. I would recommend that your unbolt the AC condensers and clean out the area they cover (they are in front of the radiators and a lot of debrit get's trapped there).

I cleaned them out for the first time in the spring and it wasn't hard at all.

 

Well I jumped in and did this work in about 3 hours. I couldn't believe the amount of trash that was removed and I did pull the condensers to find even more. If you have not done this maintenance to your car I highly recommend it ASAP. It was easy once I figured out what screws and plastic rivets you need to remove.

 

Can you really get more crap out by removing the bumpers than by just sticking a shop vac in through the front grilles?

 

Taking the front bumper, air ducts and a/c condenser is the only way to do a good job

 

I used my leaf blower with the bumper on. I'm afraid mine will have to remain somewhat dirty, because there is no way I am taking off the bumper to clean the radiators unless the car starts to over heat.

 

It really is easy, there is about 20 screws and plastic tabs. you remove the front inner fender wells and turn the wheels for access. The bumper slide right off, the is 5 screws on each duct and 2 screws for the condensers. You will be happy you did it

 

A huge amount more.

The worst stuff is sandwiched between the radiator and condensor on each side, and totally inaccessible with your shop vac from the front. By the time I got the nerve to do mine the leaves etc sandwiched in there had become like compost, and not much chance of air getting through the fins at all.

Jus do it guys. I know you dont want to scratch the bumper, but go for it... dont be scurd. Way easier than you think.

 

Why wait until you potentially could do damage to the motor by over heating it (ie. warping a head or blowing a head gasket)? The process is easier than you think and only takes an hour or 2 depending on how fast you work. You would be amazed at the amount of crud that's sandwiched between the radiator and the AC condensers. I found that around 40% of my radiator was clogged with dirt and powdered leaf debris when I cleaned it.

IMHO it's cheap and easy insurance (especially for those who live in warmer climates and drive in stop and go traffic as the 996 already has issues cooling itself when sitting) to do this as annual maintenance. If you work carefully, your bumper will not be harmed.

Deckman- If your near Rockville, I can help you clean them out.