I'm in a bit of a hairy situation... My radiator has a crack just below the cap and since she's got 150k+ miles on her I'm going to replace it rather than get it repaired. I've had the radiator off before and I know it's not that hard of a job to do alone, but it was more than 6 years ago and I don't remember exactly.

Here's the catch... I just moved across the country and left all my tools behind.

I figure I can either pay ~1.5hrs of labor to someone or I can invest that ~80-100 on tools that I'll be able to use in the future as well.

I need to get this done asap so I can get to and from work, but I don't have the means to just go and buy a new full set of tools just yet (Probably won't for another 2 pay periods). Outside of a metric socket/ratchet set (Hell if anyone knows what sizes I'll need specifically that'd be optimal) from Sears and some channel locks for the hose clamps I don't remember needing anything else. Also, did you have to put the car into the air? I don't have a jack or jack stands here yet. Am I forgetting anything?

 

The first time I swapped rads, I did it with all 4 wheels on the ground, and removed from the top. It is easier IMO to do it from the bottom tho.

As far as tools go, you don't need much... Vise Grips, and a flathead screwdriver to remove the hoses... that's all I can really think of. Oh, there are a couple bolts to remove the rad shroud... Prolly 10mm, but I really don't know for sure. A cheap socket set will get you where you need to be.

 

pair of ramps (so you can get underneath to remove fans)
channel locks (for the clamps)
two adjustable wrenchs and 10mm socket (if you care to disconnect a/c)
flat blade screwdriver (for bleeder valves)

can't think of anything else off the top of my head.