I was in the process of buying a 96 magna from a friend, when he laid it down and into a car. There is not much mechanical damage, so I decided still buy it at a discounted price. The only major mechanical problem is with the radiator. The cap got hit and (as far as I can tell) just damaged the fill tube that sticks up. It is crunched in and doesn't seal with the cap. Fluid spews out of the cap. I realize that the best thing to do is to buy a new radiator, but I'm poor and don't want to spend the $600 if I don't have too. Anyone have any suggestions? I also have heard that the radiator isn't really necessary and to just take it off. This sounds a little bold, and I wondered if anyone else has done this successfully (I live in Atlanta). Any info or suggestions would be greatly appreciated.
Take the radiator to an automotive radiator shop they should be able to fix it for you. A car neck maybe the same size but not sure, worst case scenario you find a bad radiator with a good neck and swap.
Hope this helps.
I don't think the bike would survive running without a radiator, especially in the south. Would you drive your car or truck without a radiator?
If you have a bike graveyard, salvage lot, in your area you might check with them to see if they have a late model Magna that has a good radiator. Should be a lot cheaper than a new one.
As Greg said, if it isn't busted too bad it may be fixable.