Educate me on Radiator

ralph1111 · Dec 28, 2017

Truck is running on the hot side [summer driving] thing radiator need cleaned , question is take it shop for repair minimum $100 or new aftermarket all aluminum radiator , tank and 3 core all aluminum for $136?
Will the aluminum stand up or would the original copper be better .
Ralph

David G · Dec 28, 2017

copper is always better, but a lot more expensive.

I would replace for 136, keep old one for spare.

Doug - Iowa · Dec 28, 2017

I have a old GMC 1 ton 454 that ran hot and when the rad finally started leaking I switched to a new aluminum rad. Best thing ever happened to that old truck. Zero problems two years since.

grizz02 · Dec 28, 2017

aluminum all race motors run aluminum 👀

JDEM · Dec 28, 2017

My 1994 diesel Ford had a very-heavy copper radiator. When it sprung a leak -I replaced it with a much lighter and new aluminum radiator with plastic tanks. That was 100,000 miles ago with a lot o heavy and off-road use. No problems.

I just put a brand new aluminum radiator in my 2002 Chevy van. $45 brand new including shipping. I'd have to be nuts to try to fix the old one with 220,000 miles and half-plugged.

Steve@Advance · Dec 28, 2017

I would go with the all new aluminum.

Even if you went back with a new core in the old radiator, it would not be original equipment, but a much thinner aftermarket.

ralph1111 · Dec 28, 2017

Thanks one and all for all the quick information .I am going with the aluminum .
Ralph

showcrop · Dec 28, 2017

I wouldn't condemn that poor old radiator, especially when I assume it isn't even leaking. I would pick up a container of radiator flush and first try a flush, following the instructions on the container. I believe that Dupont makes one that is considered good.

Educate me on Radiator

ralph1111

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David G

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Doug - Iowa

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grizz02

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JDEM

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Steve@Advance

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ralph1111

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showcrop

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