Aluminum radiator
Thread Starter
Intermediate
Joined: May 2003
Posts: 33
Likes: 0
From: Pekin IL
Aluminum radiator
hey guys I have a 1980 auto vette and I need to know what size is the largest aluminum radiator I can put in. expecially if I can fit a 19in tall radiator? Also is it really worth it for an aluminum I have two electrics and 40 below stuff and I still have a hard time chilling it during the day. Will an electric water pump help?
Burning Brakes
Joined: Aug 2000
Posts: 852
Likes: 0
From: Katy TX
Re: Aluminum radiator (frosty80vette)
I know that some here have bought the universal fit radiators and got them to work but I am not sure of the size. I bought a Griffen direct replacement for my 79 that even has the trans cooler. I know it cost more but it went in without a hitch. I am running a warmed up motor (about 325 HP), stock water pump and stock fan. My car runs right at the t-stat in Houston heat with AC running. So. in my experience the Aluminum radiator should fix any cooling issues if everything else is in good working order.
Race Director
Joined: Nov 2000
Posts: 11,872
Likes: 12
From: Waterloo ontario Canada
Re: Aluminum radiator (frosty80vette)
I used the universal aluminum rad and I don't remember the size but it was around 29 or 30 by 19 something. Just measure the old one roughly to get the size. The top rad hose was no problem but with the universal lower rad outlet all you need is a 90 degree pipe bend and cut the hose in two pieces and install the 90 in the line. Works well, costs alot less and can be made to look good.
I run twin electrics but most of the time only one is running and I run my stock aluminum water pump at 30 % overdrive.
I run twin electrics but most of the time only one is running and I run my stock aluminum water pump at 30 % overdrive.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Jun 2002
Posts: 2,844
Likes: 99
From: Orrtanna Pa.
Re: Aluminum radiator (PatG)
31x19 Griffen universal keeps mine cool.Check out the temp gauge.
I had to tweak the upper stock mounts a bit,but I think it looks fine.
[Modified by The Money Pit, 1:21 PM 6/19/2003]
I had to tweak the upper stock mounts a bit,but I think it looks fine.
[Modified by The Money Pit, 1:21 PM 6/19/2003]
Race Director
Joined: Mar 2001
Posts: 11,322
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From: Living in the Hartland
Re: Aluminum radiator (The Money Pit)
Go with the Summit brand, it is welded not epoxied and is $10 cheaper than the Griffin. It is also has a blue anodized fill kneck that looks nice. You will need to get a screw in overflow nipple, got one at Lowes that fit the bill. I used universal upper and lower rad hoses, they are very thick and have molded in anti collapse rings. The lower one rides on the front crossmember a touch but I bet it will get dry rot before it wears through. Been on there all last year with no signs of scuffing yet. I clamped the upper hose onto the rad and rotated it slightly to mimick the stock hose going around the alt before tightening the eng outlet clamp. After being in the position for all last summer it now holds that shape.
