I just drove the X home, like nothing had ever happened. No CEL, no more smoke. Temp needle hovers around middle. When starting to go past half way, I turn the climate control on, 90 degrees, lowest fan setting. When needle starts to go below half way point, I kill climate control.

Went to mechanic, (which will absolutely and forever be the last time I ever step foot in there again). He's still convinced engine is done, block is cracked, blah blah blah. Not buying it. When something doesn't sit right, its for a reason. Told him I want a pressure test on cooling system. done, guy said no leaks. Mind you a little after this, I see coolant on the ground, and still around the expansion tank. Seemed to ignore me telling him about the initial leak trace splatter from upper section. Before being done with it all, I get the bill for $550 for the radiator, which apparently was already discounted. Said he should just keep the radiator, and put my old one back in, since obviously the situation wasn't solved. So did that, bill was waived, leaving me still thinking that the car is kaput.

Left to return my zip car, walked back to the shop, got in car, bringing me to the start of this post.

guy also had the balls to tell me I "watch too many cartoons". Yes, thats why I just drove the thing home.

So hey, least I can rule out the worst now.