I just learned from my indy volvo mechanic that I have a small crack in my radiator (1998 V70 AWD 180,000 miles). I am wondering whether any of the "stop-leak" products from my local parts store is worth a try, or whether they might do more harm than good.

Thanks!

Some of use say it is easy, most of us say it is on the difficult side. Just like having the car up on ramps to flush the antifreeze and then removing all of the bolts and hoses to drop the radiator down. An automatic also has tranny cooler lines and the turbos have oil cooler lines attached that get unclipped.

A mechanic with a lift can do this in 1.5 hours, expect 4+ if you have never done one.

Do not bother with stop leak products. It is usually the plastic fittings that crack and stop leak only works with metal. Buy a new radiator, get new bottom and top hoses with new clamps. If you DIY, do not over tighten the clamps.

If you haven't replaced the thermostat in 5+ years, consider getting a new OEM thermostat.
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My back feels better when I sit in a Volvo seat

If it's the original radiator (17 years old) then it has outlived its useful life. It's time to replace it if you care about keeping your car for a while. A bandaid fix puts a lot at risk, like a very expensive engine overheating.
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Current rides: 2005 Volvo S80 2.5T, 2003 Volvo V70 2.4NA, 1973 Volvo 1800ES (fixed the ignition - now back to the brakes again)

Thank you. Looks like I'm in for a new radiator! Is this a do-it-yourself type job?

This video should instill enough courage to tackle the job:

https://search.yahoo.com/search;_ylt=AsnLNTlhrKNFpVmhvqUHTiebvZx4?fr=yfp-t-901-s&toggle=1&fp=1&cop=mss&ei=UTF-8&p=volvo%20replace%20radiator%202000

Not exactly rocket science, just kind of a puzzle getting the radiator, shroud, and intercooler all stacked in there together. If your car is non-turbo it will be a bit easier.

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Current rides: 2005 Volvo S80 2.5T, 2003 Volvo V70 2.4NA, 1973 Volvo 1800ES (fixed the ignition - now back to the brakes again)