Chances of radiator crack just after H2O pump, thermostat & rad. hoses replaced?

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After an instant overheat & engine shut down my 2003 Nissan Xterra (137K miles) was diagnosed as having blown H2O pump & thermostat that were replaced along with tensioner, belts, radiator hoses & fluids. 4 days later it overheated again on highway (smoking this time) & same service center said that coincidentally the radiator developed a crack around the neck causing it to leak coolant causing overheat. I feel like this issue is directly related to the problem/work from the previous weekend but they say it is not & that their previous tests showed no radiator problem & it's cracking was just coincidental in timing to previous overheat. I'm suspect that these 2 very related problems in same area are separate & unrelated issues & was looking for advise from someone more technical regarding your thoughts on these being coincidentally unrelated issues? Thanks in advance for your advice!

poppe in Raleigh NC

Oct 1, 2014

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pushrodon Oct 1, 2014

These radiators are made of plastic where the hoses hook to them... Realistically your vehicle is 12 years old now... I've seen these radiators crack for no apparent reason in much less time!... Now it's 'possible' that the least bit of disturbance to that hose connection did in fact assist this crack in forming and leaking... However it can't proven to be the case here!... It is (IMO) a 'result' of the original problem and IS directly related...but nobody's 'fault'.!!!.... S..tuff happens is the only way I can put it!!

poppeon Oct 1, 2014

Thank you, I appreciate your opinion & insight! It makes me feel better about whether or not I am being taken advantage of as being an unknowing woman. Have a great day!

pushrodon Oct 1, 2014

Thanks for the 'rare' reply!.. Seldom get such here for some reason... I think it's just one of those unavoidable things that happens in this business... See it quite often... It's a wonder it doesn't happen 'more' often in fact, given the materials that vehicles are constructed of anymore!!... I remember when they had all metal radiators!!.. (Been doing it for awhile). You're welcome, have a nice day yourself!!

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