Took my car out of storage, a 1980 LS, and took it for a short drive to get a feel for things. I was pleased the car started right up and ran strong. I pulled in the garage to change the fluids and when I raised the hood I noticed antifreeze all over the catch pan below the radiator and the front of the A/C compressor. I was a bit surprised because I didn’t smell the antifreeze. I found the radiator to be leaking at the joint in the left top corner between the top stamping and core seam. So now I think i need to look for a new radiator. The original 35 year old existing radiator may be fixable but I think it best to get a new replacement. I see several places offering radiators (Black Dragon, MazdaTrix, Rock Auto, etc) and would appreciate any comments or experiences when replacing a first gen SA radiator. Also things to look out for such as fit up issues and sensor connection locations. I stopped by the local Mazda dealer and asked if they could service the car but basically they all looked at each other with a very confused look and said the parts are no longer available…have a nice day. I’ve looked through the archives here on the board and found some dated (from 09) good articles but was looking for something a little more current. Again I would appreciate any input from anyone who has change out their radiator.

 

I used a rockauto radiator on my SA and it works great. It comes with the tubes for an automatic
tranny cooling but you can ignore or cut the off.

 

AutoZone has similar one.

 

I got mine off ebay. Really good price and has not had any problems for over a year. Mounting holes line right up. Looks alot better than stock with an electric fan.

Link : http://www.ebay.com/itm/3-ROW-Aluminum-Radiator-fit-for-1979-1985-Mazda-RX-7-RX7-MT-New-/370838237641?fits=Year%3A1980%7CModel%3ARX-7&hash=item5657ae71c9&vxp=mtr

 

Mazdatrix.

A little fabrication to fit into the slots. The aluminum was easy to work with.

 

I have that radiator lol!

I didnt trim mine, I just forced it in there. I didnt know you were supposed to trim it haha

 

Try a radiator shop. They can re-braze or fix any problem you have with your OE radiator.

 

I got one from PEP BOYS. It sucked. The thing expanded like a cake rising in the oven. It lasted 2 years. Then got a radiator from an independent RADIATOR SHOP 17 years ago, and still going strong.