I'm searching for an affordable radiator for an 83 f150 with a 302. Nothing radical done with the motor. Redone E7TE heads, cam don't have much more than stock lift, 4bbl carb, 3 speed + OD toploader 4X4.

I'm eyeballing this OSC 561 on amazon right now for 92$. It matches core width and height. It also says 3 row "EQUIVALENT". What does the equivalent part mean? Maybe not really 3 rows, but rather equal in thickness with thicker tubes than a single row?

Also, not sure if I can trust an amazon seller selling a radiator for 92$ when summit wants 250ish for the same thing.

What are your thoughts?

 

I remember seeing that radiator when searching for one for my '84. I eventually decided against it because it appears to have plastic side tanks. It's not super obvious from the description on Amazon. The only clue there is the mention of a "die cut gasket", which you wouldn't need with welded or brazed construction. Other vendors selling the same product had more pictures. Unless those were generic representations, they did show plastic side tanks.

I've had several vehicles equipped with plastic side tanks and have had exactly zero problems with them. Given my druthers, though, I just prefer the more traditional construction for durability. The choice is yours. Perhaps you could contact the seller (a third-party seller using Amazon) and check with them to be positive about the construction. Also ask about the return policy in case it doesn't fit or looks to be poorly constructed. Amazon has excellent customer service in case there's a problem, but definitely find out ahead of time what is and isn't covered with third-party returns.

My radiator saga here, including the medium-priced full-aluminum model I purchased. Despite a minor fitment issue, I am very pleased with it.

https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/1...lant-leak.html

As far as the "3-row equivalent", I suspect that is a marketing thing. The specs say the core is an industry standard 26mm thick, just a whisker over an inch. It must be a very efficient inch if the equivalent of 3 rows. Maybe it's like how heavy-duty tires have ply ratings for the load carrying ability. Years ago, a 10 ply rated tire actually had 10 plies. Nowadays a modern tire might only have 3 or 4 hi-tech plies (strictly guessing on the exact number) but still meet the standards for 10 old-fashioned plies.

 

3 row "equivalent" means it's not 3 row. Whether or not having a 3 row is important, is up to you. I would just buy locally (from Napa, O'Reilly, etc.) where you see the product before you buy.

 

That is awfully cheap. Rockauto has the same exact part number for $194.79