Radiator Replacement
Thread Starter
Intermediate
Joined: Aug 2023
Posts: 27
Likes: 5
From: Longview, Texas
Radiator Replacement
I've read through all the threads I could find but did not really learn what I need. The radiator in my 1979 Sprung a leak and needs replacing. The motor is a modified 1971 putting out about 390 HP. It's a driver, not a show car. I drive it mostly in the country, on weekends. Comments/recommendations on replacing with an OEM-style, aluminum, two row core or three. If I switch to an aluminum, what mods, if any do I have to make. Any specific recommendations on source.
Thanks,
Dick J
Thanks,
Dick J
Race Director
Joined: Nov 2006
Posts: 13,191
Likes: 7,790
From: Sunshine Coast, Queensland, Australia
2025 C3 of the Year Finalist - Modified
2024 C3 of the Year Finalist- Modified
2022 C3 of the Year Finalist - Modified
Cruise-In VIII Veteran
Hello, not certain where you are looking. Look straight above this thread in the sticky's section.
Aluminium radiators and related........
Tons and tons of reading.
The above advice, DeWits, the most expensive option.
If money is no object whatsoever. Dewits is the way to go.
If your a mortal working man. Many other ways to go.
None will be as expensive.
Perhaps read the sticky. It'll take some time, get comfy.
Me, I run a aftermarket Champion. 4 row. Works great. A fraction of the price of a DeWits.
I'm not silly rich.
Aluminium radiators and related........
Tons and tons of reading.
The above advice, DeWits, the most expensive option.
If money is no object whatsoever. Dewits is the way to go.
If your a mortal working man. Many other ways to go.
None will be as expensive.
Perhaps read the sticky. It'll take some time, get comfy.
Me, I run a aftermarket Champion. 4 row. Works great. A fraction of the price of a DeWits.
I'm not silly rich.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Jun 2019
Posts: 7,649
Likes: 2,466
From: Indiana
I've read through all the threads I could find but did not really learn what I need. The radiator in my 1979 Sprung a leak and needs replacing. The motor is a modified 1971 putting out about 390 HP. It's a driver, not a show car. I drive it mostly in the country, on weekends. Comments/recommendations on replacing with an OEM-style, aluminum, two row core or three. If I switch to an aluminum, what mods, if any do I have to make. Any specific recommendations on source.
Thanks,
Dick J
Thanks,
Dick J
- while there replace seals if gone..
- consider 180f thermostat
- if i did it again.. i would paint it black...
Drifting
Joined: Jun 2025
Posts: 1,678
Likes: 586
FYI: some alum rads' cores are SEALED to tanks using epoxy. Those are extremely difficult to repair with either weld or brazing.
Suggest just say no to the epoxy-sealed options. Not all openly disclose their epoxy; due diligence requires buyers' enquiries.
Also, prefer a machined billet or cast alum filler neck to the stamped-formed designs.
Suggest just say no to the epoxy-sealed options. Not all openly disclose their epoxy; due diligence requires buyers' enquiries.
Also, prefer a machined billet or cast alum filler neck to the stamped-formed designs.
Team Owner
Joined: Jun 2001
Posts: 23,367
Likes: 1,061
From: Virginia USA
Get a DeWitts, Don't go cheap. I went cheap a few years ago with a replacement aluminum rad (my 1971 came stock with an aluminum rad) that had epoxied tanks on it. It started leaking at the bottom of one of the tanks in less that 10 years. DeWitts are all welded and are a thing of beauty.
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Race Director
Joined: Nov 2006
Posts: 13,191
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From: Sunshine Coast, Queensland, Australia
2025 C3 of the Year Finalist - Modified
2024 C3 of the Year Finalist- Modified
2022 C3 of the Year Finalist - Modified
Cruise-In VIII Veteran
Believe it or not. The Champion Radiator is actually a nice unit. It's not the cheapest. And certainly not DeWitts price.
And their Customer service is excellent.
And their Customer service is excellent.