GMJedi
Member
Anyone recently replace their plastic/aluminum radiator? I have gone through a couple aftermarket replacements in 5 years.
A better radiator?
- Thread starter GMJedi
- Start date
Disclaimer: Links on this page pointing to Amazon, eBay and other sites may include affiliate code. If you click them and make a purchase, we may earn a small commission.
Jason in DLH
Cheeseburger and Fries
That seems like a lot of replacements. What happens to them? After 13 years and 160,000 miles my OEM is working great.
Have you checked the coolant pH level with one of those little pH strips? There’s also a test you can do with a voltmeter. I can’t remember what the pH should be, nor tell you how to perform the voltmeter test, but I know it’s something to check into if your going through so many radiators.
Have you checked the coolant pH level with one of those little pH strips? There’s also a test you can do with a voltmeter. I can’t remember what the pH should be, nor tell you how to perform the voltmeter test, but I know it’s something to check into if your going through so many radiators.
OP
OP
GMJedi
Member
170k on the original. 1st replacement leaked upon installing. I think they forgot the oring on one of the tanks. Second(different brand) has a rubber cap over an unused heater hose fitting that doesn’t go for a month without severe cracks. Original didn’t have that fitting.
The only reason I replaced it in the first place was not because it failed. I was replacing water pump and hoses. So figured might as well.
The only reason I replaced it in the first place was not because it failed. I was replacing water pump and hoses. So figured might as well.
Likely cheap quality radiators that you bought. What did you buy? It would also help to post what the hell you are driving. Can't look it up for you without that info. Or I could do a WAG and really **** it all up.
Buy an OEM. I replaced mine with an AC Delco.
FrankU
Full Access Member
Before you buy another radiator I would check for a blown head gasket , tiny bubbles in the radiator with radiator cap off and engine running. Or go to an emissions shop and have them check for exhaust gasses in the radiator .
PG01
Supporting Member
Mishimoto, becool ..... aluminum and pricey for sure.
I’d go oem like @Rocket Man suggested, it was fine for 170k and 20 yrs.
I’d go oem like @Rocket Man suggested, it was fine for 170k and 20 yrs.
wjburken
Supporting Member
I think @Doubeleive found a good source for aftermarket units that come with a decent warranty if I recall correctly.
1800radiator.com they give a lifetime warranty
The factory radiator (2014 Denali) developed a seep between the radiator and the tank on the driver's side, at ~60K miles. I replaced it with a Spectra Premium (CU2370) last Christmas (2019). No issues and the new radiator was a perfect match/fit, not capping of hoses, etc. The radiator was ~$170 from Amazon, at the time.
