47-55.1 radiator recommendations

[nvrdone]

Im at the point of needing a new radiator for my '49 3100. Its got a 327 and ive been running the stock radiator with no problems for 45 + years. But now its started to leak and I cant find a shop in Seattle that can fix it.
There are many choices from various vendors and internet suppliers - aluminum, 3 row, 4 row etc.
Any one care to share what they use and are happy with?
Thanks.

[Second Series]

Seattle Radiator works. Just take it there and they will fix it. I have had several radiators repaired there including the heater core. https://seattleradiator.net/

[mr48chev]

I saved that link, we only have one "real" radiator shop left here in the Yakima Valley and they are so busy with semi and heavy equipment stuff most of the time it's hard to get them to work on an older radiator of any kind.

I've got one of these for my 48 and it is a beast of a radiator for the price. https://speedcooling.com/product/194...inum-radiator/

[youngrodder]

I'm using a 4 core Champion radiator made for AD trucks
https://www.ebay.com/itm/19254865163...0AAOSwKrxUZPij

I didn't think the price was bad (I think I paid less a few year back). I also painted mine with Epoxy satin black to de-bling the look of the aluminum.

I'm also using a very good 2-speed fan (Cooling Components) no issues with running hot. I had a similar set up in my last build and it also performed well.

Marc

[mr48chev]

That doesn't stick out so much when it is painted. I've been thinking about using Eastwood radiator paint on mine for the same reason. I really don't like the idea of the big shiny piece of aluminum sticking up and distracting from the actual engine.

[youngrodder]

Originally Posted by mr48chev

That doesn't stick out so much when it is painted. I've been thinking about using Eastwood radiator paint on mine for the same reason. I really don't like the idea of the big shiny piece of aluminum sticking up and distracting from the actual engine.

Yeah that was the idea. I learned on my last build that the shinny radiator was NOT the look I wanted. It easier to keep looking good to (no polishing required). Just hit it with some satin mist and shine from Wizards products and I'm good to go. Painting the core support in the same color also helps it to all blend in.

I remember my painter called to ask are you sure you want me to paint this radiator black. It is really shinny. To which I replied YES.

Marc

[fauXGT]

I read up on a bunch of info a few years back on cooling including air-to-air intercoolers, including Syclone/Typhoon sites, being I have a couple of Sonoma GTs(little brother to the Syclone)...one with an aftermarket supercharger.
From the research found was that identical cores with either left natural aluminum or painted black, the black painted cooled better. Why? IDK.
But only lightly coat the black on the core or it will restrict the air flow and affect overall cooling.
Some of the 'ricers' that run around with the front bumper butchered with the shiny intercoolers hanging out are showing off, but not winning.

[nvrdone]

guys: thanks for all the feed back. now its time to do some research.
Second Series: Seattle radiator quoted me $1100. to recore my radiator. Thats out of the budget.
Young rodder & mr 48: the champion and speed cooling seem comperable, but I kind of like the formed tanks on the speed cooling one.
Decisions, decisions, decisions.

[mr48chev]

The welding along the seam for the tank to core top could be a tad prettier but that is the only issue I have with mine. Obviously I haven't run it yet but it is one of those almost everything pieces I have collected.

[Rickysnickers]

I have a Champion on my truck. The first one had a weld that cracked, after about a year. They replaced it, no problem. This one has had no issues for the last three years. I'd recommend them.

[Second Series]

Originally Posted by nvrdone

guys: thanks for all the feed back. now its time to do some research.
Second Series: Seattle radiator quoted me $1100. to recore my radiator. Thats out of the budget.

Wow! Maybe that's with the original honeycomb core if you want it stock. They recored my '55 radiator with modern core for 1/3 that. Also, I talked to them in person. I even had a custom radiator made for way less than that.