e30 radiator questions

[McDewbie]

what is the difference between an e36 and e30 radiator? i just snapped the upper hose neck off of mine and would like to put in an aluminum rad. now i cant find one for a non m e30 but i can for an e36, they llook the same and bimmerworld lists a upgraded rad for both applications with same part number. wondering if i buy an e36 aluminum rad will it fit without any hassle? or should i put in a craptastic plastic oem BMW part?
thanks, Evan

[illest318i]

It'll work, I have an e36 radiator in mine. The only thing is I don't have mounts so I use zip ties.

[McDewbie]

But I won't have to make a bunch of custom hoses? And all the señora will plug right in and work?

[jalopi]

It depends - if you've got an early e30 (pre '88 ) then the rads are different... the hoses attach to the opposite ends of the rad. However, if you've got an 88 or newer I think it's pretty much a direct fit. A few things need to be tweaked but this rad swap has been heavily covered.

Also, pro tip:

Amazon & ebay have e36 mishimoto rads for about $220-250 - these suckers have a lifetime warranty. Definitely worth the extra cash.

[illest318i]

But I won't have to make a bunch of custom hoses? And all the señora will plug right in and work?

No, no custom hoses. Everything is lined up for the hoses. I have a late 25i so if you have an early or a 318i then I'm not sure.

[MR 325]

The E36 6 cylinder radiator is a direct fit to a late model E30. No zip ties needed.