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Seems like DeWitts is, of course, closed for the 4th, but sale is on. Can't call to check on options. I'd like a black radiator, but don't need an NCRS full on option. There seem more options than I would think. Ours is an L76 1965, no AC. The part numbers and descriptions don't seem all that helpful - except the full tilt NCRS version, which is clearly explained. Obvious question - does the regular "Direct Fit" cool better and why so many options, and what are the differences. If I wait to call them, the sale will be over.
larebob -
Keeping things apples-to-apples between the two radiator series for your '65 small block, the "restoration" series provides ~12% more heat rejection capacity than "direct fit".
* DeWitts 'base model/Direct Fit' series heat rejection ~4100 BTU/m
* DeWitts 'Restoration' series heat rejection ~4600
(Aftermarket copper/brass typically ~3300)
Knowing that, you'll have to decide if a date code, part number, ink stamp inspection mark, that kind of stuff is important should you order a "restoration" series. Or, just choose plain vanilla non-detailed, non painted.
That's the info I was looking for - seems it would be opposite, as the designers could use supposedly more "modern" design. Since our car is pretty darn good, the original would be the choice - the only disadvantage is quite obvious ( $$$ ). If it buys more cooling, however, then I think we're on board.
i just installed the dewitts 32-1249063m on my '63 that had a problem overheating here in florida. This is a direct fit but not an exact original as this radiator has the 1.25" core tubes which dewittts says cools better. After wasting a couple c notes at a local shop trying to improve performance on an original radiator, i finally sprung for this one that dewitts recommended for a c2 with vintage ac. I highly recommend it too as it dropped the temperature 20 degrees in all regimes. For some reason their website posts the same specs for any radiator i pulled up so i'd recommend confirming but any hp radiator should have the larger tubes.
I'm not affiliated with them anymore but I always recommended the same one flyboh purchased. 32-1249063M The 2 in the code denotes the Black Ice finish, which really makes the radiator look better than the natural aluminum. The 4 in the code denotes the fatter (1.25") tubes and this model will cool just about as good as the original concourse radiator. You could even buy one of those foil Harrison stickers and everyone would be fooled.
The Dewitts HP Radiator is a big help over the stock part in my '63 mostly original 340/327 with Vintage Air. I haven't put many miles on it since the installation, but before the temp would easily climb past 220 at highway speeds and now it maxes out around 200.
Which DeWitts?
