Best aluminum radiator? - The 1947 - Present Chevrolet & GMC Truck Message Board Network

epashhans · 07-31-2009, 12:10 AM

Well, the rad in my truck seems to have a small leak, so I am going to upgrade to an aluminum one. No worries about staying stock...its in a 67 with a 454. I have looked around from everything from ebay to summit. Anyone out there with recommendations or ones that have worked well? Ones that haven't? I would like it to work with the original style mounting, just for ease of replacement. Any pics? Thanks!

BAGNDRAGIT · 07-31-2009, 12:22 AM

i know ron davis makes a killer radiator, i dont remember if they have a specific application to our trucks....hold on lemme check......

(jeopardy music)

and yahtzee!!!

http://www.rondavisradiators.com/radgallery.htm

its about halfway down.

mclairmo · 07-31-2009, 12:28 AM

The Alumitech ones seem nice since they look stock. However, Be Cool seems to have the best reputation though their prices are outrageous. I think any of the universal ones with side tanks should work with our trucks since the mounting configuration is compatible. Just measure to be sure your shroud will fit properly.

BAGNDRAGIT · 07-31-2009, 12:30 AM

ya be cool has some pretty pricey stuff, so does ron davis tho, seeming they are more for racing applications

mclairmo · 07-31-2009, 01:31 AM

I know you did not ask for advice on whether to switch to aluminum but I ahve to ask why do you want to switch? I think many people have some misconceptions about aluminum. I'm running the oem style brass/copper radiators in my Camaro and truck and they run great. I have no complaints.

69GMCLonghorn · 07-31-2009, 10:59 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by mclairmo

I know you did not ask for advice on whether to switch to aluminum but I ahve to ask why do you want to switch? I think many people have some misconceptions about aluminum. I'm running the oem style brass/copper radiators in my Camaro and truck and they run great. I have no complaints.

Yeah, I have to agree. I had a built motor in my truck. All I did was get the original radiator rotted out and pressure tested for leaks. The thing NEVER got above the 160° thermostat... ever! I'd blow the money on something more fun... like driving the truck to Vegas for a weekend filled with booze, gambling and whores... But that's just how I roll... (minus the whores, but hey it sounded tough... HAHA)

Green Machine · 07-31-2009, 02:01 AM

Heres some info on what we used.

http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...light=radiator

epashhans · 07-31-2009, 09:19 AM

Thanks everyone.

mclairmo, the only reason I am looking into aluminum is because my current radiator has started a small leak, is an old radiator, and I am not so certain it is actually for a 67-72 C-10. And the shroud is from something else that has been cut up to make work. I could take to a rad shop (if I can find one in my area...seems they have all disappeared in the last few years...can't make money) and have them charge me over half what a new one costs. Or I could find a nice looking and working aluminum one to cool my 454. I am not against a brass/copper one, but I am sure they will be more expensive than the aluminum one. Am I wrong?

big_al_71 · 07-31-2009, 10:20 AM

I bought one from Northern Radiators (Griffin) in the florida humid,hot weather it has performed excellent so far....

http://www.hrpworld.com/index.cfm?tp...ction=category

mclairmo · 07-31-2009, 12:12 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by epashhans

Thanks everyone.

mclairmo, the only reason I am looking into aluminum is because my current radiator has started a small leak, is an old radiator, and I am not so certain it is actually for a 67-72 C-10. And the shroud is from something else that has been cut up to make work. I could take to a rad shop (if I can find one in my area...seems they have all disappeared in the last few years...can't make money) and have them charge me over half what a new one costs. Or I could find a nice looking and working aluminum one to cool my 454. I am not against a brass/copper one, but I am sure they will be more expensive than the aluminum one. Am I wrong?

No, not wrong but it really depends. The non specific application aluminum radiators can be had for under $200 new fro Jegs, Summit, Ebay, etc. and should fit fine, but you have to be careful to get one with the large tubes in it and no epoxy and with a cooler if you an auto trans. Brass/copper could be less or more brand new depending on where you get it. If used, then it also depends on who you buy it from. If I were you, I would look at both options and go with the best value you find at the time, might be aluminum, might be brass/copper. Also, which look is better for you. I like the sleeper look. So, even if I was running an aluminum radiator, I would paint it black. Others like that bling.

epashhans · 07-31-2009, 01:42 PM

Big al, that rad looks nice. I looked on the link there and can't see a radiator for our trucks, 67-73. Am I missing it?

smoky02 · 07-31-2009, 10:40 AM

how much did it cost big al?

122 Vega · 07-31-2009, 11:02 AM

I have a Northern aluminum radiator in my 65 Mustang and am very happy with it. A few days ago it was 105 here and sitting in traffic on black vinyl sounded appealing so we took it out. With the 12" electric fan it stayed at 197 degrees. It has a mildly built 289 4bbl.

I wouldn't have any second thoughts about using a Northern radiator in my 68 LWB. I don't remember exact price, but it was in the $250 range for the Mustang.

Britt

epashhans · 07-31-2009, 02:09 PM

Green machine, I couldn't find that rad with that part number you gave me, but I found this one:

http://www.autopartswarehouse.com/sk...%26+Drivetrain

I don't really like the look of the neck, but if it fit that seems to be a good price...free shipping too. When you ordered different ones and they didn't fit, what was the reasoning usually?

Musclerodz · 07-31-2009, 06:52 PM

We use ans sell PRC radiators which look and performs like Ron Davis, but without the price. www.prchotrod.com

**Bowtie468** · 07-31-2009, 11:29 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Musclerodz

We use ans sell PRC radiators which look and performs like Ron Davis, but without the price. www.prchotrod.com

I've checked out the radiators that Mike is referring to here, and must say, they are quality pieces !

Green Machine · 08-01-2009, 05:51 AM

Yep, that pic and link don't show the correct one now. Call and ask if they have the part number Silla0369AA, that is the one that fits where a 4 core was used.

Take a look at the pics in that post I had and read the details, I tried a 3 core repalcemnt in another truck and it did not fit becuse the filler neck was to close to the mount.

If you can get the part Silla0369AA that should fit and look just like the one in my post that we used on the 1971 C20.

Do a google search on that part number and you get several hits. Don't trust the pics they use, some are generic. Mine is all aluminum with no plastic and they will return, pay shipping back and refund your money if you don't like it.

The 3 core fits like crap and I sent it back, but the 4 core is nice. Read my whole post and I will see if I can find more info about the one you should get and I will post back.

Green Machine · 08-01-2009, 06:15 AM

Looks like the Silla0369AA part number is no good anymore, but call them anyway, all I know it is hard to find something that fits exactly like the original without some shroud problem or neck or tank problem, or justs look weird..

Always some problem except that one I found. Next time I'm just going to NAPA or any local parts store, spend the big bucks and get a copper/brass radiator and keep sending them back until they get one that fits and is made like the original.

Camaro_nut2001 · 07-12-2010, 06:12 PM

Has anyone dealt with the Aluminum radiator's on EBAY? If so, who is the best?

mbgmike · 07-12-2010, 07:45 PM

we sell Northern radiators and Be Cool

Be Cool 60058 no trans cooler are $459.00 each
63058 are $799.00 with cooler
Thats $40.00 and $60.00 less than Jegs or Summit. We can beat most companies prices on anything

07-31-2009, 12:10 AM	#1
epashhans Registered User Join Date: Jul 2009 Location: MT Posts: 319	Best aluminum radiator? Well, the rad in my truck seems to have a small leak, so I am going to upgrade to an aluminum one. No worries about staying stock...its in a 67 with a 454. I have looked around from everything from ebay to summit. Anyone out there with recommendations or ones that have worked well? Ones that haven't? I would like it to work with the original style mounting, just for ease of replacement. Any pics? Thanks! __________________ '67 C-10 Shorty - 454, 5spd, and speed holes!

07-31-2009, 12:22 AM	#2
BAGNDRAGIT Just Not Low Enough! Join Date: Mar 2009 Location: Phoenix, AZ Posts: 525	Re: Best aluminum radiator? i know ron davis makes a killer radiator, i dont remember if they have a specific application to our trucks....hold on lemme check...... (jeopardy music) and yahtzee!!! http://www.rondavisradiators.com/radgallery.htm its about halfway down. __________________ NEED ELECTRICAL HELP? ASK ME! 67-72 Full Wiring Diagrams Lots Of Info, TAKE A LOOK 1967 Chevy C-10 Shortbox Bagged 327 4spd Previous: 1971 Chevy C-10 Short Sep I6 Auto (Traded) 1973 Chevy C-20 THE REDNECK BATTLE TRUCK 2001 Chevy Silverado 2Dr 5.3L Shortbox. R.I.P. 1969 Volkswagen Bug This is my first meeting, I have a horsepower problem.

07-31-2009, 12:28 AM	#3
mclairmo Registered User Join Date: Jan 2006 Location: Take Off Posts: 1,908	Re: Best aluminum radiator? The Alumitech ones seem nice since they look stock. However, Be Cool seems to have the best reputation though their prices are outrageous. I think any of the universal ones with side tanks should work with our trucks since the mounting configuration is compatible. Just measure to be sure your shroud will fit properly.

07-31-2009, 12:30 AM	#4
BAGNDRAGIT Just Not Low Enough! Join Date: Mar 2009 Location: Phoenix, AZ Posts: 525	Re: Best aluminum radiator? ya be cool has some pretty pricey stuff, so does ron davis tho, seeming they are more for racing applications __________________ NEED ELECTRICAL HELP? ASK ME! 67-72 Full Wiring Diagrams Lots Of Info, TAKE A LOOK 1967 Chevy C-10 Shortbox Bagged 327 4spd Previous: 1971 Chevy C-10 Short Sep I6 Auto (Traded) 1973 Chevy C-20 THE REDNECK BATTLE TRUCK 2001 Chevy Silverado 2Dr 5.3L Shortbox. R.I.P. 1969 Volkswagen Bug This is my first meeting, I have a horsepower problem.

07-31-2009, 01:31 AM	#5
mclairmo Registered User Join Date: Jan 2006 Location: Take Off Posts: 1,908	Re: Best aluminum radiator? I know you did not ask for advice on whether to switch to aluminum but I ahve to ask why do you want to switch? I think many people have some misconceptions about aluminum. I'm running the oem style brass/copper radiators in my Camaro and truck and they run great. I have no complaints.

07-31-2009, 02:01 AM	#7
Green Machine Senior Member Join Date: Jul 2004 Location: Estherville, Iowa Posts: 3,371	Re: Best aluminum radiator? Heres some info on what we used. http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...light=radiator __________________ 1968 C10 307 3spd Long Fleet ------ http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=201103 1970 C10 305 Super T10 Long Fleet --- http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=202285 1971 C20 383 TH350 Dana Posi ----- http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=206894 2001 GMC Sierra 1500 C3 6.0

07-31-2009, 09:19 AM	#8
epashhans Registered User Join Date: Jul 2009 Location: MT Posts: 319	Re: Best aluminum radiator? Thanks everyone. mclairmo, the only reason I am looking into aluminum is because my current radiator has started a small leak, is an old radiator, and I am not so certain it is actually for a 67-72 C-10. And the shroud is from something else that has been cut up to make work. I could take to a rad shop (if I can find one in my area...seems they have all disappeared in the last few years...can't make money) and have them charge me over half what a new one costs. Or I could find a nice looking and working aluminum one to cool my 454. I am not against a brass/copper one, but I am sure they will be more expensive than the aluminum one. Am I wrong? __________________ '67 C-10 Shorty - 454, 5spd, and speed holes!

07-31-2009, 10:20 AM	#9
big_al_71 Registered User Join Date: Jun 2008 Location: South Florida Posts: 11,375	Re: Best aluminum radiator? I bought one from Northern Radiators (Griffin) in the florida humid,hot weather it has performed excellent so far.... http://www.hrpworld.com/index.cfm?tp...ction=category Attached Images __________________ Get your facts first, and then you can distort them as much as you please!!!!!. Sylvester's build thread >>>http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...ht=big+rebuild

07-31-2009, 01:42 PM	#11
epashhans Registered User Join Date: Jul 2009 Location: MT Posts: 319	Re: Best aluminum radiator? Big al, that rad looks nice. I looked on the link there and can't see a radiator for our trucks, 67-73. Am I missing it? __________________ '67 C-10 Shorty - 454, 5spd, and speed holes!

07-31-2009, 10:40 AM	#12
smoky02 Registered User Join Date: Oct 2003 Location: Sunny, Florida, some might call it South Alabama Posts: 834	Re: Best aluminum radiator? how much did it cost big al? __________________ Just sold my C10...sad day... Looking for a 1972 Blazer to hopefully fill the hole in my heart.

07-31-2009, 11:02 AM	#13
122 Vega Registered User Join Date: Jun 2009 Location: Aloha, Oregon Posts: 32	Re: Best aluminum radiator? I have a Northern aluminum radiator in my 65 Mustang and am very happy with it. A few days ago it was 105 here and sitting in traffic on black vinyl sounded appealing so we took it out. With the 12" electric fan it stayed at 197 degrees. It has a mildly built 289 4bbl. I wouldn't have any second thoughts about using a Northern radiator in my 68 LWB. I don't remember exact price, but it was in the $250 range for the Mustang. Britt

07-31-2009, 02:09 PM	#14
epashhans Registered User Join Date: Jul 2009 Location: MT Posts: 319	Re: Best aluminum radiator? Green machine, I couldn't find that rad with that part number you gave me, but I found this one: http://www.autopartswarehouse.com/sk...%26+Drivetrain I don't really like the look of the neck, but if it fit that seems to be a good price...free shipping too. When you ordered different ones and they didn't fit, what was the reasoning usually? __________________ '67 C-10 Shorty - 454, 5spd, and speed holes!

07-31-2009, 06:52 PM	#15
Musclerodz Senior Member Join Date: Aug 2005 Location: OKC, OK Posts: 2,365	Re: Best aluminum radiator? We use ans sell PRC radiators which look and performs like Ron Davis, but without the price. www.prchotrod.com __________________ Mike Redpath

08-01-2009, 05:51 AM	#17
Green Machine Senior Member Join Date: Jul 2004 Location: Estherville, Iowa Posts: 3,371	Re: Best aluminum radiator? Yep, that pic and link don't show the correct one now. Call and ask if they have the part number Silla0369AA, that is the one that fits where a 4 core was used. Take a look at the pics in that post I had and read the details, I tried a 3 core repalcemnt in another truck and it did not fit becuse the filler neck was to close to the mount. If you can get the part Silla0369AA that should fit and look just like the one in my post that we used on the 1971 C20. Do a google search on that part number and you get several hits. Don't trust the pics they use, some are generic. Mine is all aluminum with no plastic and they will return, pay shipping back and refund your money if you don't like it. The 3 core fits like crap and I sent it back, but the 4 core is nice. Read my whole post and I will see if I can find more info about the one you should get and I will post back. __________________ 1968 C10 307 3spd Long Fleet ------ http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=201103 1970 C10 305 Super T10 Long Fleet --- http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=202285 1971 C20 383 TH350 Dana Posi ----- http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=206894 2001 GMC Sierra 1500 C3 6.0

08-01-2009, 06:15 AM	#18
Green Machine Senior Member Join Date: Jul 2004 Location: Estherville, Iowa Posts: 3,371	Re: Best aluminum radiator? Looks like the Silla0369AA part number is no good anymore, but call them anyway, all I know it is hard to find something that fits exactly like the original without some shroud problem or neck or tank problem, or justs look weird.. Always some problem except that one I found. Next time I'm just going to NAPA or any local parts store, spend the big bucks and get a copper/brass radiator and keep sending them back until they get one that fits and is made like the original. __________________ 1968 C10 307 3spd Long Fleet ------ http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=201103 1970 C10 305 Super T10 Long Fleet --- http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=202285 1971 C20 383 TH350 Dana Posi ----- http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=206894 2001 GMC Sierra 1500 C3 6.0



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07-12-2010, 06:12 PM	#19
Camaro_nut2001 Chevy Lover Till The End. Join Date: Dec 2009 Location: Mascot TN. Posts: 795	Re: Best aluminum radiator? Has anyone dealt with the Aluminum radiator's on EBAY? If so, who is the best? __________________ 1969 Chevy SWB Big Block - Under the knife as of 12/26/2011 1989 Chevy Silverado, 4X4 - Daily Driver 1996 Chevy Suburban K1500 - 4-Wheeler, Campin Truck 1968 Chevrolet Impala Sport Coupe - 327/350hp, TH400, all original. Members I've met: BamaBaxter, My Build: http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=500359

07-12-2010, 07:45 PM	#20
mbgmike Registered User Join Date: Aug 2005 Location: Pasadena,Tx /Pto Pta DR Posts: 5,415	Re: Best aluminum radiator? we sell Northern radiators and Be Cool Be Cool 60058 no trans cooler are $459.00 each 63058 are $799.00 with cooler Thats $40.00 and $60.00 less than Jegs or Summit. We can beat most companies prices on anything Last edited by mbgmike; 07-12-2010 at 07:53 PM.

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