Radiator Opinions (MAC)

[Andrew Sitzer]

Hey Larry,  I cant offer any input on brass v plastic, but I can tell you
I was able to get a lifetime warranteed radiator afor my 5ks bout 3 years
ago for  approx $150.  It took some calling around, and if I remember
correctly I got it from cap-a-radiator in long island; or, if they cant
help try  clearway foreign auto.  So far I have had no problems with it.
I think the manufacturer was modine, though I am not positive.


As a side note, before I got this radiator I had been having serious
radiator problems (like every 6 months it would spring a leak and my
local mechanic would charge me an arm and a leg to repair it.)  IMHO
replacing it was a much better choice then having them boil/dip it or
whatever they did.
-Andrew Sitzer

 On Sun, 11 Mar 2001, Lawrence C Leung wrote:

> Okay,
>
> Let me get this straight:
>
> Advantages of Brass Radiators - repairable when they start to go.
> Advantages of Aluminum/Plastic Radiators - less weight
>
> Does anyone have a comparison of the weight differences?
> Does anyone have an estimated life of brass? Aluminum?
>
> I have 163 k miles on my aluminum and it appears it is leaking out an
> endcap. Not severe yet, but it's obviously going. Are end caps repairable
> (and is it worth the bother?)? I am of the opinion that 162 K and 11 yrs
> is pretty reasonable for a radiator to go.
>
> Finally, any good North East sources for either type?
>
> LL - NY '89 200Q
>