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Which radiator to use?

jp0863

jp0863

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clovis, ca
need to replace the radiator in my 82 suburban I’m building. Apparently the old one needs to be recored and it’s in the $500 range. Anyone have a good source for a replacement? Should I do all aluminum?
Part number or link would help.
I did a search, but the answers I saw were too vague
 
I had my big block 4row radiator recored and it was exactly that. About 500. I had a hard time paying that, but with all the crappy reviews about cracked plastic radiators and leaky aluminum ones..... At least I know I have a radiator that will last me a long long time.
 
Yeah, if you aren't having overheating issues with the stocker, I'd rebuild it. Nothing beats the strength and reliability of an old radiator.
I'm running a Spectre since my Griffin pissed on me. I'll see how long it lasts, but so far it's longer than the Griffin.
 
jp0863 said:
need to replace the radiator in my 82 suburban I’m building. Apparently the old one needs to be recored and it’s in the $500 range. Anyone have a good source for a replacement? Should I do all aluminum?
Part number or link would help.
I did a search, but the answers I saw were too vague
Click to expand...

I went with a brand new Spectre. $250 and if it ever breaks I take it back to any Advance Auto store for free replacement. I agonized over rebuilding the old one but it just didn't make sense. Nearly every modern vehicle now uses aluminum radiators without issues, so it's not a material issue.

As for how well mine will hold up...we'll find out. ;)
 
I went big and got a brand new all-brass Spectra radiator a while back (6.2l diesel in my pickup). POS lasted 3-1/2 years (warranty was 2) and developed multiple pinhole leaks then blew out and left me stranded in the parking lot at work one day. Thread Link

So I recycled it (got $60 for it at the local recycler) and went to O'Reilly and got a Murray (P/N: 432098) - it's very well made and I'm much, much happier than the Spectra. It has a lifetime warranty and the tit and finish are actually way better as well. It's plastic tanks on aluminum core...but that is the state-of-the-industry for modern vehicles.
 
I've been wanting one of these since I was a kid. I'm sure there's one for an 82

Screen Shot 2018-06-29 at 8.35.00 AM.png
 
I'd pass on the fancy one. I'm more happy with a plastic tank Spectre and ford van fans. Much quieter too.
 
Last I checked was a few years ago and the radiator alone was $700
 
New Spectre diesel radiator
New Windstar Spectre brand fans
Couple relays
$220

Fits better than my old griffin, uses stock hoses, and blade style is quieter

If you want the fancy radiator, go for it, but save the money and noise and get the Windstar fans
 
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