Okay I have to know if this is the case with all new cars or if my radiator was replaced with something cheap! I just changed ther adiator fluid recently and noticed the petcock/drain valve is a plastic screw?? What in the heck are they thinking? Im afraid to go to tight with it cause I KNOW its gonna break if I put to much pressure on it.

Are all firebirds cursed with a plastic drain valve/screw? If so whats a good, not to expensive radiator with the old wingnut style to replace it with?

 

Mine is plastic. No problems with it for 5 yrs. now

 

My 86 and 87 IROC's have plastic drain screws..
I think most thirdgens came with them.. I know that my Friend's 94 Camaro has a metal one..
I know what you mean though.. every time i drain the coolant, i'm really careful, but it's never leaked or anything..

 

Well I think this is the original rad in the car, it looks it, so it would be a 20 year old peice of plastic so Im not to sure I like it....also I have a small leak someplace in the cooling system...Im betting on that plug...

 

my 83 still has the original rad - the drain is metal

 

My 88 IROC has a plastic drain valve, and the side tanks are plastic as well. No problems with the drain valve busting. I just flushed the system it works fine and doesn't leak. What does suck is the cheapassed plastic end tanks that crack and **** coolant all over.

 

I just pulled my engine and when I went to drain the rad I just touched the drain plug and it broke off in my hand!!!!!! That could have left me on the road!!!

 

I've had one break as well.
Went and got one from the wrecking yard.
They stock the popular sizes at Auto Zone/ Kragens now.
-Rich-