Should I get a new factory style (brass/copper) radiator or a Champion aluminum aftermarker one? I'm keen on this one but have heard that the brass/copper is much better for cooling and it would last longer. price is about the same for either one. I have a freshly rebuilt motor and want to get a new radiator.

This is the aluminum one I'm looking at.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/150654595898...84.m1423.l2649

 

aluminum cools better but is less durable than brass/copper.

 

Theres always debates on this. I stuck with factory. I just switched out my tall 2 row and went with the early style short 3 row for my turbo setup. Excellent cooling with a 3" intercooler 2 inches in front of it..

 

I am running a 13"x19" 3 core aluminum radiator out of a FD with my V8. As lomg as it is well vented (fans, etc) you should be good either way.

 

I bought that same radiator earlier this year. Haven't installed it yet but it is very well built and has all the factory mounts. It's thicker than the stocker as well so there's your improved cooling through added coolant capacity.

 

I have a Chmnpion 3 row short style on the GLC...no issues with it except the overflow nipple was not threaded properly and shows a drip or two on occasion. Although I have to say that is a great price...mine was over 200 a year ago.

 

I just bought the Champion brand aluminium 3 row radiator based on the positive feedback from other members. I have like 3 factory ones in the barn but they are iffy for this project. The price seemed right also.

 

I have one and I am satisfied with it. the temps stay lower with it than with the copper 2 row I had before. I was hoping for some weight saving and but dont believe it is any lighter.

I could not see the pic, you need to make sure that it has the heater outlet nipple, they have a version that does not have it.

 

I also went with the 3-row from Champion. Haven't installed it yet, but it looks great. I think you'll like it.


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FYI

I had to modify mine to get it to clear the ReSpeed rack, (Change the radiator mounts and have the lower outlet rotated up some).

I am running a 13 B so I have less room up front for the thicker radiator.

If you have a 12A then you prob wont need to change anything.

 

I just checked it it has the heater output on the lower heater hose. I also like it because I can change out the peckcock for one that aims down instaed of toward the engine. I hate having to drain the coolent only to have it ruin some of the powdercoating on the engine.

I'm running a 12A with an after market FMOC from Rotary-Works. I still need to fab up a mount for the FMOC though. It has the -10AN fittings built in.