[65k289]

My current radiator is on its last legs. I'm wondering if I should just go with a stock replacement or upgrade to an aluminum radiator. I am going to eventually upgrade the drivetrain in this car (most likely a 331 or 347 stroker/T5). Would a stock replacement be sufficient? or should I just bite the bullet and get the aluminum rad?

thanks guys.

 

[mikemustang289]

well, if you get a universal aluminum radiator the cost will not be much more than a stock replacement. Then make your own mounting brackets. That is what I did and the aluminum radiator cools way better. One of the best upgrades I have done on the car!

 

[dbiscayne]

Summit and Jegs have 2 core aluminum radiators for under $200- keep in mind that the aluminum rad's have (2) one inch cores vs a std rad. with 1/2 inch cores, so basically an aluminum 2 core equals a std. 4 core.
The number of cooling fins per inch makes a difference too, thats usually what separates a hi dollar rad. from a cheap one.

 

[protouring1]

No you don't need an aluminum one to get the job done. If you have enough air moving over your radiator and the radiator is properly sized then you will not have problems cooling your 331/347. I run the stock four row radiator with the Spal dual electric fans (they cover the entire core) I have no cooling issues. In 105 degree heat it will not get any higher then 185 going down the highway or idling for extended periods.

 

[Beoweolf]

Aluminum radiators are Shiney and weight less than copper. Copper is a better conductor and easier to repair.

You don't "need" an aluminum radiator, but if you have a special application, have some extra cash laying around ... or have to buy new in place of a oddball motor, engine combination, why not?

I keep thinking about an aluminum radiator for my ride too, but so far I have no reason to justify it, especially adapting a universal into an automatic equipped vehicle that isn't a Mustang, Camaro, Fairlane or other "popular" platform. I would think about an aux. electric fan before I'd pony up for aluminum.

 

[wildosvt01_OLD]

http://www.radiatorbarn.com/s7.asp?ac=Y&year=1965&make=FORD&model=MUSTANG&submodel=ALL+MODELS&engine_size=V8%2C4.7L%2C289ci

Its with A/C. I dont know how it will play with a non-a/c car.
You cannot beat their price and it includes shipping.

 

[Is1BadFord]

I personally haven't used a stock type radiator in any of my cars for about 10 years. Matter of fact my 96 Bronco is about due for a swap soon as well. Here's the most recent place where we get them for the race cars. Lots of sizes, great prices etc etc. Aluminum vs. stock is really a matter of choice. I personally like BIG radiators, as big across as will fit in the car. It gets hot in Arizona =). 120dgr sometimes, and the freeway's are simply ovens during rush hour. It's simply easier to buy a humongo radiator...in aluminum.

http://www.pitstopusa.com/SearchResult.aspx?CategoryID=4555

Cris

 

[sg465]

[No message]

 

[sg465]

Dont skimp on cooling system, Ive had all kinds of Mustangs some were raced and some just street. A cooling problem takes all fun out of owning a car. If its a matter of $50 get the best one you can afford, same with water pumps and dont waste money on the aftermarket 2500 cfm fans( i know some people have no problems)

 

[abecerra]

IMO aluminum is overkill. I have a 3 row with a 7 blade summit racing flex fan. Drove it down the Pan America Highway in the summer and I encountered no overheating.

Running a 66 fastback with 9.7:1 on Mexican regular unleaded.

I would go with a 4 row ( I was on a budget), but the most important thing to remember is to get the fan close to the radiator. I used a longer spacer from a Pinto.

 

[tonys10sec306]

go with aluminum one

 

[Mosse]

Go with aluminum.

...and how many times this has to come up: Copper has better conductor, BUT copper radiator has thicker walls, whitch makes aluminum more efficient...

Go with the aluminum, unless you are looking for orig. look.

 

[Magic]

and for those concerned about an automatic transmission, just get an auxiliary transmission cooler....