Radiator Source

[azskygod]

Well, my luck finally ran out Tuesday morning on the way to work. Phoenix locals take note. Summer is quickly approaching!

The plastic end tank seal on the passenger side of the radiator blew. I was cruising east on I-10 when I noticed the temperature rising fast, so I pulled off the freeway at 59th Avenue & McDowell, parked it and called AAA for a flatbed. It was pretty obvious what was wrong. Just follow the green trail of coolant to the source...

Fortunately, Hal's Radiator (59th Avenue & Glendale) had a replacement with metal -- not plastic -- end tanks and a lifetime warranty for $227. They were in stock too! Since I've had quite a lot of practice R&R'ing the radiator for other reasons lately, it only took an hour or so to swap out. 2500 miles on the new chains and guides and everything is cool. Again.



AZSKYGOD

[HeavyDuty]

Was it a Modine radiator, by chance?

Mine sprung a massive leak on the pass side end tank last Friday.

Modine's are on Nat'l backorder. I either want stock (Calsonic) or Modine.

[elwesso]

How are the radiators from summit racing???

[azskygod]

Hal's Radiator is purchasing these from a custom shop in Cave Creek, AZ. It appears to be made out of brass and is painted black. Looks like stock in all other regards -- except with metal end tanks. It fit perfectly and seems to cool very well. The temperature gauge runs slightly below the halfway mark now. Can't beat the price!

AZSKYGOD

[AZ94Q]

Hey there fellow AZ guy

Looks like you found a nice replacement... getting rid of the plastic, is a must in AZ.. I think I will get my next replacement, at that shop

[SFBayQ45]

Just doing my search and found this thread as I was searching for radiator alternatives...

azskygod - how's that new aftermarket radiator and would you recommend it? If so, could you provide the contact info?

heavyduty - I came across one of your posts indicating that you've installed an aftermaket Modine instead of OEM's Calsonic. How's that one holding up and would you recommend it? Btw, what was the price difference.

q45tech - I remembered one of you many posts suggesting that you would only go back to OEM since the custom-made radiator you installed wasn't worth it. If that's the case, would you recommend me to stay clear of all aftermarket radiators?

hitman - I think you just installed a new radiator as well during this past summer's heat in AZ. Regardless of which type you used, what are your personal thoughts?

everyone - Any input/feedback would be greatly appreciated, so please feel free to chime in...

A new one from Joe @ $397 is hard to swallow, so I'm looking for an alternative that better fits my budget.

[SFBayQ45]

Any suggestions/recommendations on a radiator replacement anyone?

[HeavyDuty]

heavyduty - I came across one of your posts indicating that you've installed an aftermaket Modine instead of OEM's Calsonic. How's that one holding up and would you recommend it? Btw, what was the price difference.

I like the Modine units, a lot. They are aluminum with plastic end tanks like the oe, price was similar to stock, but none were available pronto-like at the time.

I don't know what year your car is, but if it's a 92-96 you'd be ok with the Modine. 90-91 has a sensor on the bottom of the tanks that the Modine does not have a bung for.

Heh, I said unit & bung in one post.

[SFBayQ45]

I don't know what year your car is, but if it's a 92-96 you'd be ok with the Modine. 90-91 has a sensor on the bottom of the tanks that the Modine does not have a bung for.

Since mine is a '91, I guess I'll have to rule out the Modine as an option. Oh well...I appreciate the feedback HD! So what did you end up installing since the Modine wasn't available at the time...an OEM? Just out of curiosity, how much was a Modine anyway?