2nd Gen Non-Engine/Transmission Impact damage to intercooler

[TimBrunett]

Something hit the front of my 01 and caused the intercooler mounting tab to get bent Actually everything got pushed back and left the mounting tab sticking out toward the front. OK the body shop says its pewter and will not bend back it will break first. Has anybody had any experience with this? It looks like cast alum but it could be pewter. I was hoping a little heat applied in the right place would let it bend back. But IF it did break off -the radiator, AC and all that front end stuff would have to be drained and removed just to replace the unsupported intercooler and boy that would be VERY expensive. They say just leave it alone and they can fix things ok with taking such a big gamble on pewter. Any suggestions?

Thanks Tim B

 

[mcdaniel1]

Almost 24 hours with no response... So I'll throw my 2 cents.



I really have no idea but I would check with a radiator shop in your area. A large shop should have run into this at some point in the past and would have an opinion on whether to fix it or not.



Hope this helps.

 

[JKinney]

I had a hole in a a/c condensor once and took the repair estimate to my insurance and said a rock had come up and hit it. I had to pay my 50 comp, the insurance co paid 550. 00

 

[Lsfarm]

Pewter?

If anyone in a shop told me that a part on a post WWI vehicle was made of PEWTER I'd yank my keys out of his hand and leave very quickly. I'd maybe possibly believe pot-metal, but the manufacturers quit using it when plastic became reliable in the 60's and 70's.



Pewter was used for eating utensils, pots, plates forks/spoons in the 1800's, much was silver plated to look like solid silver.



The intercooler is aluminum, and the tab can be straightend, but if it breaks off then get it TIG welded back on. Or just live with.



Good luck. Greg L