80RX7LS

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.

t_g_farrell

iTrader: (1)

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.

350xfire

iTrader: (1)

AutoZone has similar one.

beebs1612

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

TimWilbers

iTrader: (1)

Mazdatrix.

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

wankel=awesome

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

Qingdao

iTrader: (3)

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

midnight mechanic

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.