I am looking for recommendations for a replacement radiator for my '64 CS. About 10 years ago, I had a local rad shop rebuild my original to a 3 row. It has now developed a slow leak, and I suspect that the time has come to replace it.
I am running a 500hp, 396 stroked Dart engine coupled with a factory 4 speed. I am also running the original barrel type shroud along with a clutch fan. My heat gauge usually runs around 185 degrees, slightly higher in stop and go traffic. I am looking for something that will bolt in without any modifications. I am not interested in any electric fan combinations. Any suggestions will be greatly appreciated. It would also be great to shop in Canada. Thanks.
Thank you Pete, Mark, and Darryl for your replies. Since my original one was recored approximately 10 years ago, I would not spend the money on it again. I do believe I spent close to $400.00 getting it rebuilt and strongly suspect that I can purchase a new one of comparable or superior quality at a lower price. I will check out your suggestions. Anyone had any experience with the Spectra brand?
A good rebuild locally can be the best for heater cores, the new stuff Ive had fail in a year. Not sure about rads, bought mine from Show-Cars many years ago, no issues. Not sure what you get today. If you decide to buy new, check them out carefully for online ratings and reviews on site you trust. There are cheap Chinese aluminum rads for sale that are poor quality.
-- Edited by DonSSDD on Sunday 26th of September 2021 06:26:01 AM
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63 Parisienne sport coupe (The Big GTO), black, maroon interior, 409 4 speed; former owner of a 59 El Camino, 63 Corvette SWC, 62 Chev Bel Air SC. 1963- Pontiac top selling car in Canada
Mahone Bay, NS Still not old enough to need an automatic
I'd have it re-cored again. Had mine done (to 3 core) about 10 years ago, by a local shop with a stellar reputation for re-doing old style rads. Worth every penny for the peace of mind.
If you are not fighting a cooling issue, then I'd have to agree somewhat with parconuk. I don't think the tanks, if brass are likely to rot, and it's nice to keep at least that part original.
But on the other hand, you cannot beat the offshore aluminum rad for performance, and it's all new. The stamped tank is really nice, and you can easily paint them. But I think that $199usd rad shown, while appealing, would likely be double that to your door Brian. A big brand name aluminum on shore would be at least 700. Either way, you're in for some bucks however you choose to do it.
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65 Laurentian post, 67 Grande Parisienne 4 door HT.
Update. After careful consideration regarding quality, original cost, exchange on the Canadian dollar, shipping and proper fitment, I decided to have my original '64 CS radiator recored by Regina Radiator here in the city. They took it apart and discovered the tanks to be in excellent condition so they put in a new core unit. As was suggested, this was not a cheap repair. ($564.99 to be exact) I am very pleased with the result and also have a full year's warranty. Thank you again for the input.
