Opinions on "parts store" radiators?
 

I noticed a few people have used the AutoZone/Oreilley/generic parts store, FC radiators that have metal end tanks instead of the crappy Mazda factory plastic tanks.

Can anyone vouch for these radiators? I was thinking it would be a better deal with a Limited Lifetime Warranty, and about $100 less (without shipping) than a Koyo.

I've used AutoZone radiators in some of my other cars, and never have had problems. If if does crap out....drag it back into the store, with coolant puking out, and with dead bugs and grass stuck in it and get a new one.

Two things.

Thing one: There is nothing wrong with the original plastic tanks, except they are 20+/- years old and have had too many heat cycles.

Thing two: Radiatorbarn.com, baby. Forget Autozone.

Thing Three: Spooledupracing has great radiators and prices.

Thing four: I cant count.

Good info.. my radiator got stolen from the back of my truck just before I was going to put it into the car so now I need a new one and I was going to ask the exact same question.. Thanks

i have a fluidyne with 30,000 miles on it i'd sell you for 275$+shipping

See the problem I have with online companies is...
What happens when you have a parts failure? Take the radiator out, pay for shipping, wait for the company to fix it, wait for the part to come from UPS/FedEx/etc., and that's only if everything is right the first time. Such as shipping address, the right part, and infinite possibilities.

I'm straying away from my original question...
Does anyone think an "OEM-style" radiator with metal end tanks is good enough?

Well, I have installed three different radiators from them 1995 E150 w 5.8l, 1992 Toyota Celica and my 1990 RX7 vert. Fine fit, fine performance. They work in the Texas Heat and I use high quality antifreeze so corrosion is not a concern.

Depends on what you want to do. 400 hp, probably not. Stock replacement, absolutely yes.

And as for service, do you think the local parts house has one in stock? Drive to the parts house (spend gas $) order it. Drive to the parts house to pick it up (spend gas money).

OTOH, I ordered my last one on a Thursday nite and it arrived on Friday morning-shipped from a regional warehouse. To my door, no driving involved. Your choice.

Good Luck!