Radiator question

[steve from staten island]

I have the original rad for my 69 b body,car is automatic. The rad needs work and most likely re-cored. Is there any advantage to using the original rad and is it worth it to have it restored verus a new one? Thanks

 

[tallhair]

Depends. What is your car and what are the details and what do you want to do with it?

 

[themechanic]

My car had same issue. I plan to drive it and it's not restored to show room condition. So, I saved the original, and very valuable even in current condition, radiator and bought a new aluminum radiator. See my reviews of two brands.

http://www.forbbodiesonly.com/moparforum/showthread.php?60285-Aluminum-Champion-and-US-Radiator-Review

 

[steve from staten island]

id like to keep the car as original as possible but its also what is cost effective

 

[themechanic]

You'll need to do what I did and take it to a professional to see what condition it is in. Then, based on a quote, you can decide to have it repaired or buy another one. Classic Industries has OEM style black radiators for cheap. No part number stamps, though. If you want that you'll have to send yours to http://www.restorationradiators.com/about.htm.

 

[tallhair]

No offense but the rad you have may not even be the original.

check this out before you stress to much over it http://www.mymopar.com/radiatorspecs.htm

 

[coloradodave]

You'll need to do what I did and take it to a professional to see what condition it is in. Then, based on a quote, you can decide to have it repaired or buy another one. Classic Industries has OEM style black radiators for cheap. No part number stamps, though. If you want that you'll have to send yours to http://www.restorationradiators.com/about.htm.

OR, if your radiator is the original and you want to keep it, any local radiator shop can recore it and use your original tanks. Most of the guys that do that kind of work are amazingly talented in my experience. Good luck.

 

[steve from staten island]

Thanks Guys!!!!!!!!!!! checked out the numbers and its the correct radiator for the car. Id like to keep it original if possible so i called that shop that was posted and there going to get back to me. I'll keep you informed and thanks again

 

[WileE]

Do not get the garbage imitation repro radiators. See if you have a local radiator shop to do the re-core, those other guys are expensive. I would've referred you to mine, but he went out of business.

 

[themechanic]

Over $650 to restore my radiator in Oklahoma. I bought a new aluminum radiator for less than half.