What's the best radiator to acquire for our engines?

While I'm at it I'm going to replace the water pump also. Recommendations?

 

Best is Mishimoto and International water pump.

I wouldn't pay the Mishimoto prices though for a radiator. Just get one that is 100% aluminum that does not have plastic caps on it.

For the water pump, I bought an IH pump 5+ years ago and it was dramatically different than the one I removed from the truck. I hear Airtex pumps last a long time too though, so it really comes down to how much you want to spend and if you really want the best or if you want what is good enough for 100,000 miles.

 

I want the best.
I do it once and it's done.
I'm looking at RiffRaff now.

 

I use the international from Riffraff or they also have the Motorcraft available.

https://www.riffraffdiesel.com/water-pump-7-3l-96-03/
https://www.riffraffdiesel.com/water-pump-7-3l-96-03/

 

Don't buy from Ebay. Going round and around with them now. But I know where it's going to stop. With me having to modify the wrong radiator they sent me. Shame me once-strike one: Shame me twice-strike 3.

 

Yeah, reputable source, RiffRaff

 

‘’If you go with an aftermarket radiator make sure it’s the exact same thickness as the OEM. If it’s too thin the shroud won’t fit tight and air will take the path of Resistance and the fan won’t pull 100% of the air through the radiator, IC etc. Regarding the pump, Motorcraft or International...

 

Just a reminder to anyone considering the IH cast iron water pump... it is incompatible with dual alternators.

 

Sous, I remember you mentioning in another post, painting the water pump before you install. Now Y2K w57 has mentioned cast iron Water pump. And I wish I had of painted mine.

 

Yes, I wish I had painted mine too. Although, 5 years later it is not a bright orange any longer and blends into the engine bay just fine. Especially since it is in an odd place to be looking.

If I ever need to replace it, I will paint the new one black or dark gray.

 

Mark, I just installed a Mishimoto radiator in my truck about 2 months ago, and it is a beautiful piece no doubt. I feel as you do, sometimes cost just doesn't matter, its about quality, and I really like the quality of the Mishimoto Radiator. I called around and also looked at several other radiators that were in the $300 dollar range but they were no where near the quality I was looking for. The OEM quote I got from the dealer was actually a little more at $850 than the Mishimoto. The Mishimoto is also a little bit bigger than the OEM radiator and the Mishimoto also comes with what seems to be a very good warranty as well.
I have 3 things to add here that I came across when I installed my Mishimoto radiator.
* First, I had to install a couple of rubber shims at the very bottom where the OEM Shroud (dowels) drop in to the Mishimoto radiator Shroud supports. This kept the Shroud nice and tight and in place for my road trip. I don't know why the shroud has so much play here. The Factory installation was a much better fit here. Maybe to fit other vehicles, I don't know. I installed these rubber shims because I had them on hand. I will eventually drill and tap the ends to install a plastic or metal bolt. It doesn't need have a lot of clamping force to hold down the shroud here, so again maybe a 1/4" plastic bolt that you just hand tighten for ease of removal and installation.
* Second, I felt a need to install a couple of plugs in the Transmission cooler ports at the bottom of the radiator as well. Most of our trucks have an external Trans-Cooler, so no need for these. I guess it wouldn't hurt to leave them open, but for me, It wasn't an option. It would be nice if the Mishimoto radiator came with the plugs already installed in there. This way If you chose to use the Mish/Transmission cooler, then you just remove the plugs and thread in your transmission lines. If you find yourself wading thru any sort of mud, or even with time, this cavity will fill debris and completely plug it up.
* Third; I changed out the drain port plug the radiator came with to an EZ port drain Valve w/90*. This makes it much easier to drain the Coolant into a bucket, and not shooting out all over the place.

 

long story short.

my OEM rad failed on a road trip snd the easiest one to get was the lifetime warrenty $200 Duralast from autozone.

it has some packaging damage but i installed it anyhow.

when i got home I exchanged it for a new one and the store manager let me cut it open to inspect it. compared it to the motorcraft. both external and internal, the build quality and construction were equal. I was impressed and would buy it again for another vehicle. ( since this is the last one i will ever have to buy for my 7.3 )

replaced the waterpump, fan clutch, tensioner, idler as well as all 5 hoses and cap and belt motorcraft.

went with dorman on the coolant tank due to availability.

chose the new 4 seasons AC compressor, condensor, TRX and tube from autozone because of the lifetime warrenty and decent price.

 

@countrycar what year is your truck?

I have a 99 V10 and later added the OTW transmission lines when installing a new OEM radiator. The OTW cooler helps drop transmission temps while idling and cruising.

@Mark Kovalsky can speak more on the necessary OTW cooler.

 

@countrycar What size is the 90º valve? Size of the other fittings?

I'd like to get these while waiting for the "box with yellow tape".

Thanks, Carlos.

 

This is the EZ valve and the 90* adapter that can also be added.
https://www.ezoilchangevalve.com/sto...mm-1.5%5D.html
On Edit. Let me know if you'd like me to put a tape measure on the valve assembly and post up some pictures. I know sometimes it helps. I struggle to get a true feeling or clear understanding from pictures.