Aluminum Radiator better than standard 4 core?

[cst350]

Need to get a new radiator. I'm going to retain the clutch fan and the stock shroud. Any thoughts on why I would not go for an aluminum radiator over the standard 4 core? Saw some posts about Entropy units and the cost looks comparable to local shops for standard copper ones.

[jhwkns]

The standard four core will have a lifetime warranty if you buy it at the right place. Checker, now O'Rieleys replaced mine for FREE ten years later. No questions asked.

[rsavage]

Most aluminum radiators I have seen have square shouldered tanks that do not fit the radiator retaining clamps properly. If a hot rod/non stock restoration, aluminum is okay. If a stock look and fitment is desired, go with the stock 4 core.

[tubbedII]

Originally Posted by rsavage

Most aluminum radiators I have seen have square shouldered tanks that do not fit the radiator retaining clamps properly. If a hot rod/non stock restoration, aluminum is okay. If a stock look and fitment is desired, go with the stock 4 core.

Yup...just put in an aluminum one in my blazer last week...didn't fit exactly right and the top retainers are a little crooked. There's no chance of it coming out at least, but I'd rather have a stock one since my engine bay isn't anything pretty. From what I've read, a stock 4 core will cool just fine...I just got this rad for free so I used it.

[SactoJim]

Got a factory 4 core in my 72 with a 383 and a small supercharger......never any overheating probs... even sitting in traffic in 100+ deg temps.

[68Gold/white]

The way the alum radiators are constructed makes installation a challenge, I had problems mentioned above, BUT an aluminum can cool much better. A new brass/copper unit will do the job, but alum. is a better heat conductor...

[cst350]

Thanks all, think I will go with the standard 4 core after all.

[KRUSTY 51]

I installed an aluminum radiator just yesterday, I needed a new one and the price was half that of O.E.copper. As said in previous posts the tanks are square and I just re-shaped the top bracket lip to fit the tank.

[MagmaJct]

Originally Posted by 68Gold/white

The way the alum radiators are constructed makes installation a challenge, I had problems mentioned above, BUT an aluminum can cool much better. A new brass/copper unit will do the job, but alum. is a better heat conductor...

Actually copper has higher thermal conductivity than aluminum. Aluminum radiators have become popular over the last couple of decades because they are cheaper than copper which improves factories' bottom line.

They are also lighter, which helps improve MPG ratings and reduces emissions. (Because there's less work to do!) Of course, changing the radiator alone doesn't do all that, it's all the little things done to make cars lighter over the last 2 decades that has helped.

[mcmlxix]

All aluminum WITH factory style round edge side tanks....

http://www.chevellecooling.com/64.html

[68MoneyPit]

i bought an aluminum radiator and everything is good side to side but it seems to be about an inch and a half too short on height. anyone ever run into this. byw it is a champion 3 core aluminum

[gotchamel]

I don't have any input on the orginal question but I just ordered a Ready Rad{all metal}4 core from Advance online,depending on the promo code you get 15-20% off plus a 50.00 voucher mailed to you.I am a NAPA fan but ended up being 150.00 less at Advance with the discount and coupon.

[PanelDeland]

I gave under $200 at the local Advance.Picked it up at their local warehouse so I didn't have to wait.

[1972RedNeck]

http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/s...d.php?t=528324

I went with copper.

[Daddy Brim]

Got mine at O'Reillys Lifetime Warranty all mettle for $194.34