cheers ivan.... yeah it looks ok now, i may consider removing the locks if i choose to keep it, if not then i wont!! well the hole was quite large, as it was gushing out and empty'd the rad in 4-5 mins with the engine running... & lobotomy, yeah a few people recommended doing that or using rad weld...untill the saw the hole!!! but all is good again as ive got a new rad for £88 inc vat. and boy!!! have i missed driving her!!!!!! its good to be back on the road!!! hopefully no more bad luck!! Rich.