What kind is better to use, aluminum or brass an copper? I a running stock 350 Chevy. I am wanting a three core that looks stock. The aluminum on eBay are reasonable priced but do not look stock. Where is good place to find radiators at good price?

 

Radiators for older cars and trucks, in my opinion are far overpriced. You might be able to find a cheap import radiator for a fairly low price. But, you'll probably fight fitment issues. Aside from online auctions like Ebay, Mid-fifty has some of the lower radiator prices I've seen.

Copper/Brass or Aluminum? It's not so much the material that makes aluminum more efficient in transferring heat as it is how they are made, tube sizes, tube spacing, fin counts etc. US Radiator is expensive, but has some useful information regarding radiator designs and efficiency. It might be helpful in making a decision.

Something to consider is if you still have radiator shops in your area, then a copper/brass radiator would be something they could repair in ever needed. Typical radiator shops don't repair aftermarket aluminum radiators.

 

I bought the US Radiator "Desert Cooler" radiator for my '53 through Mid-fifty for $550. Seemed to be a great radiator until the top tank separated at the seam with less that 50K miles on it.

 

I bought this on eBay https://www.ebay.com/itm/1953-1954-1...-/291662892598

 

That's a nice looking radiator for the price listed on eBay. How did it fit, any issues or modifications needed to get it to fit? My preference is to buy US made products, but the price of a US made radiator is ridiculous.

 

I have that same radiator. Mine in the core area started leaking about 3 years / 9K miles after I bought it. I put a bottle of K-seal in it and it's been good ever since. It's even been good after flushing it.

 

56_f100 Fitment was good. I’ve got a aftermarket electric fan and shroud on mine but seems to work well.

Hooler1 they are supposed to be lifetime warranty. Might wanna check back with them if the leak starts back up.

 

I bought this one with the shroud and electric fan kit for my 56. Bolted in with no problems.

https://www.coldcaseradiators.com/pr...mance-radiator

 

Hi BJ!
I did not know they warranted them that long. I bought it back in 2011 so I figured it was out of warranty. I will check into that. Thanks for the tip!

 

I just bought this radiator with shroud less the cheap fan and went with a spal electric fan and I'm happy with the look and quality. This has the correct outlet on the passenger side.

 

Nice looking unit, might need to look into one for my next project..thanks..

 

I have champion radiators in multiple cars and have had no issues. Paint it black if you dont like the aluminum look.

 

What did you do to paint yours?

 

I didnt, I dont mind the aluminum look, but there is black spray paint available specifically for radiators.