View Full Version : Radiator suggestions please for my 91
billschroeder5842
01-30-2017, 07:55 AM
I need to order radiator for my 91 and would like recommendations.
Now, I just drive the car- I dont race, the engine is not modified and I really dont get on it all that often (okay, I lied on that one).
I need something reasonable and solid.
I know there are many choices and I see prices run the gamut. While money is not a huge factor, I don't want to spend 600 when 300 will do. My primary decider will be fitment ease (lining up and using factory connections with no modifications) and overall durability for a spirited daily driver
Also, from my research, I note that the L98 and LT5 share the radiator but mine does not have the transmission coolant lines bung holes that I keep seeing in the photos? Plus is there a HUGE difference in the all aluminum vs the plastic and aluminum? My plastic/aluminum lasted for 26 years....
I'll order later today or tomorrow for Friday deliver and install (hopefully)
Thanks!
GOLDCYLON
01-30-2017, 08:46 AM
Now, I just drive the car- I dont race, the engine is not modified
I don't want to spend 600 when 300 will do. My primary decider will be fitment ease (lining up and using factory connections with no modifications)
Bill for these reasons just buy a factory GM or OEM Replacement. The last one lasted 26 years and provided adequate cooling for the car. You really only need to upsize the radiator if you plan on performance modding the car. Overtime the plastic ends tend to swell with age.. You wont get that with an all aluminum radiator.
billschroeder5842
01-30-2017, 10:17 AM
Bill for these reasons just buy a factory GM or OEM Replacement.
This makes sense and I'm leaning that way.
Should I get concerned that the replacements that I've seen have the automatic transmission bung hole? I realize they get covered by the shroud so its not an estetic thing but a fitment issue.
So, will "any" OEM spec L98/LT5 '91 radiator do the job?
GOLDCYLON
01-30-2017, 10:50 AM
This makes sense and I'm leaning that way.
Should I get concerned that the replacements that I've seen have the automatic transmission bung hole? I realize they get covered by the shroud so its not an estetic thing but a fitment issue.
So, will "any" OEM spec L98/LT5 '91 radiator do the job?
No as you stated those bung holes are for the auto transmission cooler for Automatic equipped cars. You will simply leave them "bunged" All the OEM replacements are so equipped. Only way around that is to find a OEM NOS Manual transmission radiator. Will either do the job in an unmodded LT5 or L98? Yes
billschroeder5842
01-30-2017, 11:22 AM
Will either do the job in an unmodded LT5 or L98? Yes
Roger that- thank you Sir!
GOLDCYLON
01-30-2017, 11:27 AM
Roger that- thank you Sir!
Roger Out !
Jagdpanzer
01-30-2017, 12:25 PM
One day left to get in on the Dewitt annual 15% off sale. http://www.corvetteforum.com/forums/c7-vendor-for-sale/3930243-dewitts-2017-annual-sale-expires-jan-31th.html#post1593940565
Go with their 1129090m single row.
Around $300 with the discount
Dynomite
01-30-2017, 12:44 PM
One day left to get in on the Dewitt annual 15% off sale. http://www.corvetteforum.com/forums/c7-vendor-for-sale/3930243-dewitts-2017-annual-sale-expires-jan-31th.html#post1593940565
Go with their 1129090m single row.
Around $300 with the discount
I would go with what Phil is suggesting or a like Aluminum Radiator (I would also go with the Double Row)........The Zs do better with an Aluminum Radiator and the Double row.
I have Ron Davis (expensive but the best) and Fluidyne in all Zs. Also run with 180 deg Thermostats in all Zs except 195 deg Thermostat in L98s. I think I also have a Dewitt in one Z which was previously installed.
C4 Corvette Aluminum Radiators (http://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_from=R40&_trksid=p2050601.m570.l1313.TR0.TRC0.H0.XC4+Corvet te+Aluminum+Radiator.TRS2&_nkw=C4+Corvette+Aluminum+Radiator&_sacat=0)
I need something reasonable and solid. While money is not a huge factor.
Thanks!
A good quality Aluminum Radiator in the Z is the last thing I would scrimp on. And since you have the radiator out as well as the Fans.....replace ALL Coolant Hoses with new screw Clamps (use the rounded edge screw Clamps for Silicon Hoses or all Coolant Hoses).
Install all Screw Clamps such that the screws/nuts are accessible after installation of the fans and Radiator. I use a bit of Permatex on ALL Radiator Hoses/Fittings
billschroeder5842
01-30-2017, 02:15 PM
And since you have the radiator out as well as the Fans.....replace ALL Coolant Hoses with new screw Clamps (use the rounded edge screw Clamps for Silicon Hoses or all Coolant Hoses)[/B].
Install all Screw Clamps such that the screws/nuts are accessible after installation of the fans and Radiator. I use a bit of Permatex on ALL Radiator Hoses/Fittings
Thanks- Hoses from Jerry's on order and will be installed. The hoses are original and need to be changed. So, While everything is apart.....
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