Does anyone have experiences with aluminum radiators?

I will be looking for the highest quality, best cooling model for my 1969 Nova.

I have used a huge Griffin in my other car and was very impressed for its quality, but honestly that was nearly my only choice for that model-Be Cool or AFCO, etc was not a player. Just curious on others recommendations.

Thanks

I run the big block griffin, the be cool radiator is the same width, but is only available in small block size (meaning its horizontal measurement across is shorter). At the time I purchased they were the same price, so I went with the bigger one. The griffin is an over kill for my motor (sb 406), so my opinion is to get what ever is cheaper. Be carefull, both companies make different thickness and sizes for our cars, make sure you compare apples to apples.

John

L48M20

I bought a BeCool because the tanks are welded and the tubes are also welded to the tanks. This rad can be repaired if necessary. Before I bought mine, I spoke with the rad shop I deal with and they told me they had a few Griffins come in and they have had leaks where the tubes are epoxied to the tank, and these rads cannot be repaired. I have also heard of guys running Griffins for years without a problem, so I guess it's a matter of what you feel comfortable with and if the size, configuration, and price is right for you.

I have a Griffin unit in my car as well, it was a universal fit, I had to make some simple brackets to mount it to the firewall. So far it seems to work pretty well, but I have really tested it in 90 degree weather, sitting in traffic, etc. It's a big sucker, and was less than $200 if I recall correctly.

I agree with John, make sure you know what you are buying. The external dimensions are important, but more important are the core sizes and number of rows. The Be Cool units are really pretty, good looking stuff for sure, but they are pricey. In addition, when I was looking for my unit, I noticed that often their units are single core, or the dual core are 1" tubes. My Griffin has dual 1.25" tubes, and is a cross flow design. I just assumed that putting the largest capacity unit I could fit was the way to go, nothing worse than overheating.

Mark

Thanks folks!

I'm interested in a direct fit model so that should make things less complicated for comparison.

Can one install a BBC model where a SBC was originally?

From what you stated and what I remember hearing, the radiator support has a larger cutout for the BBC model. I will be installing a new Goodmark radiator support so either I could make the enlargement if it is not already equipped or just have a larger radiator.

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L48M20
You might want to consider a custom radiator from streetrodstuff.com,
cheaper than many of the big names. They make them to your exact dimensions.
Talk with Dick Z.

I put one in my 67 350 Camaro, fit real nice.

L48M20,

I have a few buddies with the Griffin, and Be Cool Radiators, they run just fine with proper fan and shroud assemblies... so I think you'll be pleased.

I myself run a Northern Products Radiator... same effect, I am well pleased too! I think you just need a good fit, and make sure you get the proper size for your mill. The mounts would be an added eye pleaser as well.

Good luck with you choice!

Jerry

I just put in a direct fit Griffen big block aluminum radiator into my small block car. Everything bolted up perfectly. The lower radiator hose worked fine, but the upper radiator hose was short. I went to the parts store and found a longer hose and trimmed to fit. I also installed a Mark VIII electric fan. I drove to work 40 miles this morning and I never even turned the fan on. The temp was 175-180 even at stop lights. It kind of freaked me out to not have to turn on the fan, but it ran cool. The real test will be when it gets HOT here.

Thanks guys!

I would like maximum cooling capacity with my new engine-cooling is something I would rather be overkill on than not.

The Griffin in my other car doesn't have a mechanical fan, just two electrical ones. They almost never turn on when street driving-hot or cold outside. smile.gif

a buddy has a be cool -- it will not overheat! thats what I'm going with

I bought a PRC radiator from streetrodstuff.com... It showed up in a couple weeks, and was made to my exact specifications. Very nice piece and much cheaper than griffen, or BeCool.

NOthing wrong with the Becools and Griffins, but the custom PRCs are the best bang for the buck unless you are looking for bigger 1.25" tubes in my opinion. If you have a bigblock air car in a hot climate I would want the larger tubes. Anything less theh PRC is perfect for. YOu can get the fans there too.

Check them all out and compare before spending that hard earned $$$.

Ron Davis Radiators at rondavisradiators.com. The best custom radiator with tank and integrated fans/shroud for about 30% less than BeCool and Griffin. Check him out.

try doing a search here? LOL

I have a griffen, 1.25 core,in my 67

works great!

I wasted my money with the 3 core copper. :(
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