Radiator 3 or 2 core

outsource77 · #1 (**permalink**) 10-27-2009, 04:27 PM

Hello,

I have a 76 f100 I6 300cid 2wd, no AC. I have been looking to replace my radiator. I have found that there are two types for the I6 300cid, a two core for trucks with out AC and a 3 core with AC. Will there be any gains installing a 3 core radiator on my truck with no AC or should I stick to the 2 core?

rebocardo · #2 (**permalink**) 10-28-2009, 08:46 AM

If it is aluminum then a two core is fine for almost everything.

If this is not an aluminum radiator then you might want a three core:

If you live in a hot state,
If you tow,
If you have an automatic.

wb6vvv · #3 (**permalink**) 10-28-2009, 10:59 AM

You might check on getting a crossflow instead of the old downflow type that came on your truck. They have found them to be much more efficient. Becool makes one in aluminum for your truck. They have them in a single or a dual core. The core is much larger than the conventional type of radiator’s core and they claim it is much more efficient and doesn’t block airflow. I am not a real fan of aluminum, but a lot of people claim they are great. You can google BeCool and find all of the information you need.

daveengelson · #4 (**permalink**) 10-28-2009, 12:33 PM

Tend to lean towards options to a fault, if there is no fabrication involved between the 2 radiators tend to prefer going bigger in the event decide to install auto trans, or ac at later date. Having said that, drove the 65 F100 with 2 row radiator for approx. 15 hard yrs with the 300ci, and another 15 yrs with 302 and never had heating problem. Rebuilt the 302 few yrs back and decided to go with 3 row, with reserve tank, intending to install auto trans. Anyhow, had an urge to chime in and add my $.02.