My 16 year old stock 2 core radiator had seen better days. After
boiling over twice during our last trip to Ocotillo, I decided it was time for a change.
Requirements:
I wanted a 3-core radiator that would mount up in the stock
location and allow for the continued use of my Flex-a-lite fan.
After checking around my favorite BBS and I found a post about
Radiator.com which sounded good. I was
able to pick up a 3-core "semi-OEM" radiator the next business day for $138 with a lifetime
guarantee.Installation:
Extremely easy. The radiator was "guaranteed to fit" and it
sure did. I also replaced the elbow pipe that connects the water pipe to the lower radiator
hose. I had noticed the pipe was corroded when I did my engine,
and picked up a replacement for $10 from a bone yard a few weeks prior. When removing the
hoses and pipe the age and corrosion was very apparent. Not to mention both
bottom welds that held my old radiator to the mounting bracket had broken off. Overall Impression:
The new radiator uses the exact same mounting brackets, thus the electric fan mounts up
perfectly. The only size difference between the two is the 3 core is deeper and slightly
taller, however there has not been any fit issue. The only other purchase needed was a
radiator cap for about $6 at any auto parts store.Regrets/Problems?
One minor pain, the drain cork isn't very user friendly. Maybe I'm not using it correctly
but when I loosen the cork to drain the coolant sprays, not drips out. This can cause a big
mess and hefty fine if somebody really wants to report you.
I've since put 2 holes in this radiator, the big benefit of brass radiators is that this is
repairable, and pretty damn cheap ($25). One final recommendation I would make would be to
get an after market coolant gauge, just to let you know what's up. Not to mention that I
boiled over-hard-with the OE gauge f**king reading "normal," worthless
I tell you....Conclusions:
This has been a great relatively cheap addition to my toy.
Having a 3-core for a V6 in the 4 cylinder is great, I no longer have that looming fear of
boiling over and causing engine damage...again. I highly recommend this to my friends and
readers.Update:
During our trips to Big Bear and Ocotillo I found the limit of this radiator. Normal operating temperature is
at it's high point 210. I was able to get the gauge to about 230 for a long period of time. This was on the trip
back from Ocotillo, up a grade, with the AC on in 100 degree weather with full gear. And climbing a couple of
thousand feet up to Big Bear with a full load of gear, a passenger in 90 degree weather. The radiator didn't
go any higher than this and the stock gauge didn't rise at all.Back to Words |