Two problems related to radiator have been reported for the 1997 Ford Thunderbird. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
They replaced the manifold and then the radiator malfunctioned, 18. 000 miles later the heater core failed, was replaced in the last 6 months since Aug 4 times. Ford does not have a clue and the dealer is trying to fix it each time at leaks. The brakes/rotors have been a cronic problem since the car was new. The calipers have been resurfaced 3 times and finally replaced.
Radiator began leaking coolant. Car run hot. Previously engine manifold cracked. At that time(October 99), engine ran hot and smoke was coming from under hood. They replaced the manifold and then the radiator malfunctioned. The engine is now running harder and the noise level is higher. I fear that with the car overheating so many times permanent damage may have been done to the engine heads. The car is almost out of warranty and I fear I may get stuck with an engine repair job after the warranty expires.