overheating st Options

[Malhar95]

i recently noticed, that my gauge reads hot sometimes and then drops quickly, first time it did that i checked the coolant, was a little low added water,

and then it does it randomly, coolants level is good. however when i turn the blower on (with temp to hot and AC button on) the needle comes down.


i also noticed the first day, that its leaking from where the bottom radiator hose connects to the engine, above the transmission area.
but yesterday when i was filling up gas, (it wasnt over heating or anything, i just checked) i saw its not leaking from there, but its quit wet under the coolant reservior and it was bubbling.

im guessing its the thermostat, but any input from you guys? how do i diagnose a thermostat, other than taking it out and puting it in a hot pan?

[Malhar95]

Well here's the situation,
Option 1. Assuming it is the radiator that's choked, I replace it myself, maybe 120 in parts easy labor I can finish it in about 45-1 hour. Replace all hoses and thermostat.
Two things can happen: I solve the problem. That's good
OR the problem doesn't go away, and I loose the warranty can the shop doesn't replace any other part ie head gasket or waterpump (cause those are the only two things that are left)

Option 2. I pay the shop for the radiator
Either the problem is solved, I wasted 500 on a job I could do,
OR the problem doesn't go away and the shop replaces the waterpump
OR tells me the headgasket is damaged and they won't cover it cuz my negligence damaged it.

I only have 2700ish miles I think left on the warranty. Not sure if paying a shop is worth it, but then that's how much ill be paying approx for waterpump or headgasket(part only) if it doesn't solve the problem.

Kinda confused of what to do.