peterg943

Looks like its time to replace my radiator. I have a 1986 Z51 automatic. Any suggestions on what to buy? My research shows that mine is a single row but most of the replacements I've seen online are 2 or 3 row. If I buy the 2 or 3 row, will it install without modifications? Anything I should know before I decide weather or not to tackle this project?

Tom400CFI

Budget and goals?

If it's just yer basic driver, any stock replacement should do fine. The stock cooling system is better than good enough. If you're planning on mods/tracking the car, then something better might be wise....depending on your budget.

gerardvg

Hi
A standard radiator has 1x 1 inch row, you can get 2x 1 inch rows from dewitts they are expensive but the best.

http://www.parts123.com/corvettecent...50f&ukey=09618

Most Ebay ones are cheap Chinese ones that will give you problems, the 3 row are 3x 1/2 inch rows or two by 3/4 rows.
Don't do as I did I got a cheap two row some years ago from super radiator that would not cool my car, It got recycled for aluminum scrap.

my latest is a champion double row 2x1 inch, was great for a few weeks till the trans cooler weld on the radiator started to leak trans fluid. Lucky I also had an external air cooled trans cooler, have bypassed the radiator and no other problems since.
Quite a few members have recommended the champion radiators, I must have got the Monday or Friday made one... It does cool really well compared to the standard radiator.

Goes to show cheap doesn't always work, with a couple of cheap radiators and overseas shipping. I could have got a dewitts radiator with change left over.

I recommend the standard radiator for an unmodified vette.

0Tom@Dewitt

Another option is our 1.5" single row. 50% more cooling than the stock 1" unit
Model: 1129084A (Single row) $383.99
http://www.dewitts.com/collections/c...minum-radiator

aklim

Is it as drop in as your 2 row ones? My 2 row one is about as drop in as I could ask for. There was a very little bit of work but not bad at all. Much less than expected.

rickcarol

I recently purchased the 1.5" DeWitts radiator and it fits with no issues. The only problem is that it ends up being hidden by the shroud; it is a very nicely made unit.

aklim

Guide to know.

corvettenorway

go for the 1.5" DeWitts radiator

steven mack

I didn't know DeWitts made a 1.5 radiator.That is the way to go and at a great price.

aklim

Been a while but I haven't heard back from anyone first hand who installed one. I know that the big one fits in easy. Wasn't sure if this one is the same

3JsVette

This routinely gets beat to death on the C2 and C3 forum.
If you want the best fit and a high quality American made piece DeWitt's.
Almost all the other choices are some what of a compromise.

JrRifleCoach

To echo everyone's opinions, the DeWitts radiator was a mod most worthy of the money.
Just remember to install a fresh t-stat of factory temp.
No need to use a lower temp as this radiator will keep the temps under control.

Tom400CFI

Was this not an answer?? Post #6...

aklim

Must have missed it.

desertmike1

With the Dewitt's Choice, you simply replace it, and forget about it..

Except for the occasional cleaning of course!

Tom400CFI

Not surprising.

aklim

We can't all be as perfect as you when on the move all day long yesterday, today and tomorrow. Good thing we have perfection like you to inspire us.

Tom400CFI

Perfection not required; it's not like it was "obscured" in a long verbose post....it was there, by itself, clear as day. I guess your busy schedule only allowed you to post...but not read the other posts in the short thread. I get it.

aklim

Correct. I'm with a someone work related and on a train. I miss things from time to time especially when I'm conversed with sporadically. More of a distraction schedule than busy every minute. Moments of activity with moments of lull. I understand it is difficult for you to understand. My neighbor is a teacher. Maybe she can draw pictures to help? It would have to wait until tomorrow evening before I can see her to ask

Tom400CFI

Yes, with all your spare time, you should do that. Post drawing.

You DO realize; you replied (in post #7) to the very same post (#6) that you "must have missed it", by quoting it! So you had the time to read it (and reply w/a quote)...but you didn't actually read it. Same comprehension issues you had in another thread. What ever the reason/excuse...who f'n cares?? Not me.

As you were man...back to your train ride.