Ok, after even more thorough research I have decided that I probably received a damaged unit from ECP and, attempting to stay under budget, have now ordered a Champion/American Eagle radiator. It was actually a few bucks cheaper, has two 1" cores, correct welded hose fittings and appears to be straight! Although so did the ECP unit. I figured by ordering a radiator from a different company, I would reduce my chances of receiving another warped radiator. I have read good things about the AE radiators so...

 

I put an AE in mine last year,Works well and keeps the temp from getting 2 hot,Hard to beat it for the price also.

 

Did it drop right in or was there some mods to the rubber retainers? Thanks.

 

They had to make some simple mods/cuts to the rubber retainers in there.There is a write up on the CF someplace with pictures. Didn't look hard,but I didn't have the time or the tool to do it.

This should help you

https://www.corvetteforum.com/forums...omparison.html

 

Well I thought I'd update the radiator replacement saga. The American Eagle radiator (which was thankfully square and straight) went in fine after trimming the rubber cushions. There is a bit of clearance issue with the fan frame making contact with the radiator fins and keeping the top shroud from making full contact with the fan frame but it all went together in the end.

The bottom radiator hose (Gates) is fairly new but it slipped onto the fitting very easily, as if the fitting was too small. I had to tighten the clamp twice to stop a leak. I may replace that hose if it keeps leaking. The top hose fit good and snug so I doubt it's an issue with the radiator fitting itself.

A new 180 degree thermostat was installed as well. The fully warm freeway running temperature is now 196, down from 203 to 230 degrees. After idling for 15 minutes the temp got up to about 205 and settled, but this is in 45 degree outside temps. I am anxious to see what happens when it's 95 outside!

A side note. It now seems to take longer for the engine to warm up to full temp, as if the thermostat has a small leak and is letting coolant flow when it shouldn't. I am concerned about fuel mileage and possible increased engine wear. Or it could be just the winter outside temps and better airflow after cleaning the condensor and intake area.

Thoughts?

 

As I have your sister car on the west coast & the same radiator in my 94 black rose,I went thur last summer with it.The temp can move up in warmer weather,but it drops much faster when fans kick in or car starts moving in traffic.No mpg change that I could see I think you will be happy with this setup.

 

Wow! Is that radiator. a "SE" body line design. the box would be very evident. with the amount of impact that would require. That is just plain ole lack of Pride & QC.