shops in (south) Austin?

[frixion]

Howdy Guys -

I've got a couple issues and need some professional help... I've got a 96 ford explorer with 175k miles on it. It's been running hot and I really need a good/honest radiator shop. The SES light came on and it's running hot. Probably just a thermostat or something but I haven't the time or inclination to f*ck with it.

Another issue.... I've got a 98 cobra w/ cervini kit on it. Well, I've got a lot of paint scrapes and the front bumper needs a little body work. Anyone know of a good body shop?

I'm in South Austin (Slaughter) so the closer the better!

Thanks a lot guys!
JDB

 

[JoeDirt]

JDB,

When was the last time you changed the coolant? I can tell ya not to take it to Dodd's, but I think they're north of the colorado anyhow. He filled my radiator up with 100% antifreeze. Amazing. I lived in austin for 2 years...whatever the outcome, go with a 50/50 mix of antifreeze (with good anticorrosives) and water. Be sure that your water source is free from lime and calcium.

Im not sure if it could be the t-stat since they would normally go and get stuck open which would keep your engine running cooler. Could be your water temperature sending unit. I would take it over to one of the ford dealers in south austin (do NOT take it to Covert up north, more nightmarish stories).

I dont think I helped much, but good luck.

JB
Hook'em Horns
Class 2002

 

[bradmatejo]

I don't know about radiator shops specifically, but for general mechanic stuff I use Hohmann's. They're on 290 a little ways past the Y in Oak Hill. Very honest, good people.

For body shops, DO NOT use Southwest Body & Paint on S Lamar. I guarantee they'll screw something up or do shoddy work and try to pass it off as perfect. Some friends of mine used Barton Creek Autobody but I think they're now closed. They used to be across from Burger Center.

As long as we're talking, do you know of a nearby (I'm in S Austin too, Brodie Ln) junkyard that has a plethora of Explorers or other Ford trucks?