Originally Posted by nate13

A complete refresh is replacing any parts with over 60,000 miles on them and draining the fluid. ECS tuning sells a great package, and if your tracking down the leak it is worthwhile to order the stage 3 (or most inclusive) package. A lot of parts look "fine" until you take them out and compare the condition. If you think a part is in good condition enough to reuse, then you can put it back on knowing you have a spare in hands reach!

The headaches saved will be worth the extra 2-300 bucks in parts. I've chased after my leak as follows: thermostat (was leaking), upper rad hose (separated from housing), expansion tank/ cap, water pump (bad gasket/ bearing on the way out), lower hose/ fan switch o ring, and finally the radiator (hairline crack on plastic end tank.

That meant taking out the fan, taking off belts, multiple coolant refills/ bleeds, worrying, cursing... You get the picture.