Radiator - Repair or Replace??? - The 1947 - Present Chevrolet & GMC Truck Message Board Network

robert213 · 10-01-2008, 09:58 PM

The original radiator of my 1982 GMC Sierra 2500 (3/4 ton) 4x4 started leaking this summer. The leak is located near middle and lower 1/4 of radiator. I guess that I shouldn't complain about a radiator that has lasted over 25 years without any problems. It has 700R4 automatic transmission. It does NOT have a/c.

Saving money is not really a concern, so I am not looking for a cheap solution. I would like the next radiator to last another 15 years.

Option #1
Have local radiator shop repair leak.

Option #2
Have local radiator shop replace core and keep end tanks.

Option #3
http://www.radiators.com/manufacture...-radiator.html
http://www.radiatorinfo.com/modine.html
http://www3.modine.com/v2portal/page...ineHomeDefault
Replace with new Modine Brand radiator. Local parts store says copper/brass is no longer available. I would have to purchase aluminum core with plastic end tanks.

Option #4
http://www.radiators.com/manufacture...-radiator.html
http://www.answers.com/topic/transpro-inc-1
http://www.transpro.com/17-radiators
Replace with new TransPro/Ready-Rad. TransPro Brand is sold thru AutoZone and Pep Boys. Ready-Rad is sold thru Advance Auto Parts. Available with copper core and brass end-tanks.

Option #5
Does anyone recommend any other brands?

Thanks...

**old Rusty C10** · 10-01-2008, 10:00 PM

I would have the thing recored..unless youre looking for more cooling for the motor.. ive never had a problem with any one ive done that way and the tanks are just brass.. as long as youve had antifreeze in it you should have zero rot on it and frankly if the tanks are not good the radiator shop should tell you

On edit if you do wind up going for a new one i HATE plastic tanks so id go for any option without plastic tanks

**78 Big10 454** · 10-01-2008, 10:15 PM

If you have access to a reliable shop, my vote is to have your present radiator recored. My cousin took the plastic route for his Big 10 and ended up with nothing but trouble. That sentiment was echoed by several of my co-workers who had major problems with plastic units.

impalamark · 10-01-2008, 10:31 PM

I don't like being stranded so would

buy a new all metal one after all the old one lasted 25 years -right?

and money was not an issue ?

Having one repaired is only as good as the person doing it
Mark

boatpuller · 10-02-2008, 10:48 AM

our local place did my 4 row.theyv'e been in buisness since "christ was struggling with his times tables"(i like that one)

.they at that time would guarantee their recore longer than the brand new chineese replacenent.if money's no issue it's just one less worry.

gchemist · 10-02-2008, 02:13 PM

Buy new. I have a Modine 454 aluminum radiator. Nice quality and workmanship. I purchase all replacement radiators from www.radiator.com. Usually delivered the next day too. To reduce rust, a anode is inserted at the neck. Once a month, I pull it out and clean it. Worth the $8 from www.jcwhitney.com

whiskeydented · 10-02-2008, 05:44 PM

A few years ago I bought a brand new one from napa (it was brass) and haven't had a lick of trouble with it. It also fit like a glove.

Mike

robert213 · 10-03-2008, 11:12 AM

Autozone and Advance Auto Parts sell Transpro/Ready-Rad

http://www.pliii.com/17-radiators
http://transpro.com/heatexchanger/pages/radiators.htm

TransPro/Ready-Rad, part number 438730

Quote:

Make: GM
Core Size: 28 3/8 x 19 1/4 x 2 5/8 inch
Rows: 3
Inlet Tank: 3 x 20 7/8 inch
Outlet Tank: 3 x 20 7/8 inch
Inlet: 1 5/16-1 9/16. Top Left
Outlet: 1 9/16 inch. Bottom Right
Mounting Type: Channel
Transmission Oil Cooler: 8 1/2 inch.
Notes: Heater Return Line & Coolant Sensor (fluid level???) on RH Tank

Retail: $314.99
Warranty: Lifetime

TransPro/Ready-Rad, part number 438716

Quote:

Vehicle: 1982 GMC K2500 Pickup 4x4 5.7L
Core Size: 28 3/8 x 19 1/4 x 2 inch
Rows: 2
Tank Inlet: 2 3/8 x 18 5/8 inch
Tank Outlet: 2 3/8 x 18 5/8 inch
Inlet Connection: 1 5/16 inch. Top Left
Outlet Connection: 1 9/16 inch. Bottom Right
Mounting: Channel
Transmission Oil Cooler: 8 1/2 inch.
Engine Oil Cooler: <blank>
Comments: Heater Return Line & Coolant Level on RH Tank
Construction: Copper Brass

Retail: $269.99
Warranty: Limited Lifetime Replacement

NAPA sells Modine
http://www3.modine.com/v2portal/page...ineAboutModine

CarQuest sells Pro-Select
http://www.bauer-radiator.com/pro-select.asp

I have read several recommendations regarding...
http://www.radiator.com/index.php
http://www.performanceradiator.com/

Unless someone gives a strong argument for aluminum/plastic, I plan to purchase a 2 row copper/brass Pro-Select from my local CarQuest auto parts store.

Albatrossian · 10-03-2008, 11:57 AM

Do you plan on racing it or upgrading the engine with some performance parts? Steel/brass radiators are great, but they're prone to rust. Aluminum is the best heat exchanger and plastic won't rust, along with the fact they're lighter. Nowadays, plastic tanks can be fixed as easily as metal ones.

robert213 · 10-16-2008, 08:13 PM

Follow-up...

01) Easiest way to determine number of rows

After engine has cooled, remove radiator cap and simply count the number of vertical rows. My radiator (1982 GMC K2500 4x4 5.7L VIN L w/ 7004R4) had 3 row radiator from the factory

02) Aftermarket Auto-trans cooler

The dealership where my parents bought my truck installed an aftermarket auto-trans cooler. They used plastic buttons to fasten it to the radiator core. This plastic buttons vibrated and over a period of 25 years, and wore small holes in the core, causing my radiator to leak.

03) End-tanks and Radiator mounts

Before purchasing any radiator, measure the width of the radiator end-tanks. If my research from the parts dept of my local GM dealership is correct, the width of the end-tanks (hence the radiator mounts) are the same for both 2-row and 3-row radiators -- 2 3/8 inches. Most replacement (OEM and aftermarket) radiators use 3 inch end-tanks.

04) 2-row info

Universal part number xxxx716
GM part number 52479539 - 28 5/16 x 16 7/8 x 1 1/4
superceded to plastic aluminum

05) 3-row info

Universal part number xxxx730
GM part number 52481619 - 28 3/8 x 19 7/16 x 1 7/16
superceded to plastic aluminum

06) I purchased custom-made all-aluminum...

I was not able to find an aftermarket 3-row radiator (730) with 2 3/8 inch end-tanks. I had the intention of having local neighbor radiator shop re-core my radiator when he suggested purchasing a brand-new all-aluminum custom-made radiator from one of his suppliers -- less than $275.
-- includes pit-cock (drain-plug)
-- includes port connection for heater return hose
-- includes built-in auto transmission cooler

robert213 · 10-20-2008, 06:54 PM

I purchased an all-aluminum radiator for $240.00

Make: Silla
P/N: 0716AA
Alt P/N: DPI 716

Made in China

10-02-2008, 02:13 PM	#6
gchemist BAD BOW-Silverado XST Join Date: May 2000 Location: Senior Member from Austin, TX Posts: 6,431	Re: Radiator - Repair or Replace??? Buy new. I have a Modine 454 aluminum radiator. Nice quality and workmanship. I purchase all replacement radiators from www.radiator.com. Usually delivered the next day too. To reduce rust, a anode is inserted at the neck. Once a month, I pull it out and clean it. Worth the $8 from www.jcwhitney.com __________________ Gerardo a.k.a. Mad Chemist Silverado XST videos

10-02-2008, 05:44 PM	#7
whiskeydented Registered User Join Date: Dec 2006 Location: connecticut Posts: 261	Re: Radiator - Repair or Replace??? A few years ago I bought a brand new one from napa (it was brass) and haven't had a lick of trouble with it. It also fit like a glove. Mike

10-03-2008, 11:57 AM	#9
Albatrossian Georgia Boy Join Date: Jun 2008 Location: Douglas, Georgia Posts: 370	Re: Radiator - Repair or Replace??? Do you plan on racing it or upgrading the engine with some performance parts? Steel/brass radiators are great, but they're prone to rust. Aluminum is the best heat exchanger and plastic won't rust, along with the fact they're lighter. Nowadays, plastic tanks can be fixed as easily as metal ones.

10-16-2008, 08:13 PM	#10
robert213 Registered User Join Date: Nov 2006 Location: Indianapolis, IN Posts: 21	Re: Radiator - Repair or Replace??? Follow-up... 01) Easiest way to determine number of rows After engine has cooled, remove radiator cap and simply count the number of vertical rows. My radiator (1982 GMC K2500 4x4 5.7L VIN L w/ 7004R4) had 3 row radiator from the factory 02) Aftermarket Auto-trans cooler The dealership where my parents bought my truck installed an aftermarket auto-trans cooler. They used plastic buttons to fasten it to the radiator core. This plastic buttons vibrated and over a period of 25 years, and wore small holes in the core, causing my radiator to leak. 03) End-tanks and Radiator mounts Before purchasing any radiator, measure the width of the radiator end-tanks. If my research from the parts dept of my local GM dealership is correct, the width of the end-tanks (hence the radiator mounts) are the same for both 2-row and 3-row radiators -- 2 3/8 inches. Most replacement (OEM and aftermarket) radiators use 3 inch end-tanks. 04) 2-row info Universal part number xxxx716 GM part number 52479539 - 28 5/16 x 16 7/8 x 1 1/4 superceded to plastic aluminum 05) 3-row info Universal part number xxxx730 GM part number 52481619 - 28 3/8 x 19 7/16 x 1 7/16 superceded to plastic aluminum 06) I purchased custom-made all-aluminum... I was not able to find an aftermarket 3-row radiator (730) with 2 3/8 inch end-tanks. I had the intention of having local neighbor radiator shop re-core my radiator when he suggested purchasing a brand-new all-aluminum custom-made radiator from one of his suppliers -- less than $275. -- includes pit-cock (drain-plug) -- includes port connection for heater return hose -- includes built-in auto transmission cooler Last edited by robert213; 10-16-2008 at 08:16 PM.

10-20-2008, 06:54 PM	#11
robert213 Registered User Join Date: Nov 2006 Location: Indianapolis, IN Posts: 21	Re: Radiator - Repair or Replace??? I purchased an all-aluminum radiator for $240.00 Make: Silla P/N: 0716AA Alt P/N: DPI 716 Made in China

10-01-2008, 09:58 PM	#1
robert213 Registered User Join Date: Nov 2006 Location: Indianapolis, IN Posts: 21	Radiator - Repair or Replace??? The original radiator of my 1982 GMC Sierra 2500 (3/4 ton) 4x4 started leaking this summer. The leak is located near middle and lower 1/4 of radiator. I guess that I shouldn't complain about a radiator that has lasted over 25 years without any problems. It has 700R4 automatic transmission. It does NOT have a/c. Saving money is not really a concern, so I am not looking for a cheap solution. I would like the next radiator to last another 15 years. Option #1 Have local radiator shop repair leak. Option #2 Have local radiator shop replace core and keep end tanks. Option #3 http://www.radiators.com/manufacture...-radiator.html http://www.radiatorinfo.com/modine.html http://www3.modine.com/v2portal/page...ineHomeDefault Replace with new Modine Brand radiator. Local parts store says copper/brass is no longer available. I would have to purchase aluminum core with plastic end tanks. Option #4 http://www.radiators.com/manufacture...-radiator.html http://www.answers.com/topic/transpro-inc-1 http://www.transpro.com/17-radiators Replace with new TransPro/Ready-Rad. TransPro Brand is sold thru AutoZone and Pep Boys. Ready-Rad is sold thru Advance Auto Parts. Available with copper core and brass end-tanks. Option #5 Does anyone recommend any other brands? Thanks...

10-01-2008, 10:00 PM	#2
old Rusty C10 Robert Olson Transport Join Date: Oct 2002 Location: recent transplant to NC USA Posts: 20,345	Re: Radiator - Repair or Replace??? I would have the thing recored..unless youre looking for more cooling for the motor.. ive never had a problem with any one ive done that way and the tanks are just brass.. as long as youve had antifreeze in it you should have zero rot on it and frankly if the tanks are not good the radiator shop should tell you On edit if you do wind up going for a new one i HATE plastic tanks so id go for any option without plastic tanks __________________ Bob 1951 International running on a squarebody chassis "If a man's worth is judged by the people he associates himself with, then i am the richest man in the world knowing some of the fine people of this board" http://67-72chevytrucks.com/vboard/a...t.php?f=25&a=9 (you can review the site rules here!) PM Me for your vehicle/parts hauling needs in the North East US or see my Facebook page Robert Olson Transport Live each day to the fullest.. you never know when fate is going to pull the rug out from under you... I hate cancer!! Last edited by old Rusty C10; 10-01-2008 at 10:01 PM.

10-01-2008, 10:15 PM	#3
78 Big10 454 78 Big10 454 Join Date: Jul 2008 Location: Pismo Beach, CA Posts: 841	Re: Radiator - Repair or Replace??? If you have access to a reliable shop, my vote is to have your present radiator recored. My cousin took the plastic route for his Big 10 and ended up with nothing but trouble. That sentiment was echoed by several of my co-workers who had major problems with plastic units.

10-01-2008, 10:31 PM	#4
impalamark Registered User Join Date: Feb 2008 Location: cocoa florida Posts: 183	Re: Radiator - Repair or Replace??? I don't like being stranded so would buy a new all metal one after all the old one lasted 25 years -right? and money was not an issue ? Having one repaired is only as good as the person doing it Mark __________________ the avatar was my 62 I owned for 27 years 84 chevy short short bed black 84 gmc long bed copper/ buckskin 88 chevy k5 blazer white Life's short make the most of it Mark aka impalmark Last edited by impalamark; 10-01-2008 at 10:32 PM.

10-02-2008, 10:48 AM	#5
boatpuller Registered User Join Date: Sep 2005 Location: Sun City West, Az Posts: 3,822	Re: Radiator - Repair or Replace??? our local place did my 4 row.theyv'e been in buisness since "christ was struggling with his times tables"(i like that one).they at that time would guarantee their recore longer than the brand new chineese replacenent.if money's no issue it's just one less worry. __________________ " Never look up a dead dogs butt."



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