Replacement Radiator - GN and T-Type Performance Enthusiasts (GNTTYPE) Forums

MSKBuick · #1 07-20-2008, 08:45 PM

Need a little help on deciding if I should replace the corroded radiator with a standard replacement brass/copper one for the '87 turbo buick or go with an aluminum one? If an aluminum one, should I go the all aluminum, and if so what is a good place to get one for? Or should I go with the F-Body aluminum/plastic tank (not sure what year if I go this route - will it fit directly) radiator.

Thanks

PaCemkr86 · #2 07-20-2008, 10:36 PM

http://www.gbodyparts.com/product_in...9446c5d1ccccaf

MSKBuick · #3 07-21-2008, 07:17 PM

Thanks Phil, I looked at that, one from Summit, not sure about the correct year for a Camaro one from a parts store, or if I should get a replacement '87 one from the parts store. I was trying to find more info and input on whether a cross-flow or downward flow is better, dense fin spacing vs not so dense, at the same time aluminum vs the copper/brass. Copper/brass dissipates heat better than aluminum, but aluminum is lighter. I guess I am trying to get a feel for what the rest of the turbo buick people have, such as yourself, to help convince me what to get for a replacement radiator.

PaCemkr86 · #4 07-21-2008, 07:46 PM

im using the f-body radiator, with dual fans

MSKBuick · #5 07-21-2008, 08:13 PM

What year of camaro, any problems with plastic tanks, and how does it compare for physical dimensions versus the original radiator?

Thanks

PaCemkr86 · #6 07-21-2008, 08:20 PM

you have to add, coolers if you want to run the factory oil cooler and a trans cooler will have to be added.
http://www.gnttype.org/techarea/airc.../fbodyrad.html

MSKBuick · #7 07-21-2008, 08:30 PM

Phil, thanks for the link, I was looking for something like that. How different are the two radiators in size, the F-Body vs the original that is? Also, can you tell a different in temperature? Would you still recommend the g-body radiator or do you think that is over kill vs getting plenty of cooling with F-Body radiator.

PaCemkr86 · #8 07-21-2008, 08:35 PM

the f-body is almost a direct bolt in, other then the addition of the external coolers you have to add.. I perfer not to use an engine oil cooler, and most people that have blown there engines dont reuse them anyhow.. But a new stock style radiator or the f-body.. they will both work great. it just comes down to your preference.. My daily driver GN has a factory replacement with all the coolers, works great..

MSKBuick · #9 07-21-2008, 08:41 PM

The F-Body is definitely cheaper at $120 vs the $450 for G-Body, but the G-Body is a 3 core all aluminum vs the 1 core plastic tank F-Body. I think the G-body also has the built in tranny and oil cooler.

PaCemkr86 · #10 07-21-2008, 11:40 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by MSKBuick

The F-Body is definitely cheaper at $120 vs the $450 for G-Body, but the G-Body is a 3 core all aluminum vs the 1 core plastic tank F-Body. I think the G-body also has the built in tranny and oil cooler.

it does..

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Grand...spagenameZWDVW

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/BUICK...spagenameZWDVW