Universal Aluminum Radiator Replacement?

[eighteight325is]

Does anyone know if replacing the OEM Behr/Nissen radiators with a universal aluminum radiator has been tried?

I know it wouldn't be a direct fit and you would probably have to fabricate some brackets and maybe do an electric fan conversion but what else needs to be considered before even attempting this?

I'm going to need to replace my radiator soon as the crappy plastic side tanks have started leaking and I am weighing my options. Places like Jeg's sell tig welded aluminum rads for under $200 with similar width cores and the same flow directions as the standard M20 radiators.

Is even contemplating this insane?

[trent]

No, it isn't that big of deal. I was going to do it, and then got lazy. Also couldn't decide what to do with the block feed.

[browntown]

I dont think it's insane at all, plenty of people have done this, I'm sure someone will chime in with a model # for you. Probably wouldn't require a whole lot of fabbing, I'm sure there is one of similar dimensions.

[eighteight325is]

Sweet! Yeah, if someone can chime in with a link to write up or part numbers or whatnot that would be super helpful.

Damn, browntown it is hard to concentrate on typing because I keep looking at your avatar :)

Trent what considerations are there to weigh regarding the block feed?

[trent]

I dunno what I am talking about.

[jlevie]

Well.. If the OE plastic radiator has lasted 18 years, I don't see any point in trying to graft in some aftermarket part that isn't a direct replacement. I don't remember for certain when the change occured, but an 88 car might be able to use the E36 radiator. Which means that you could install the Zionsville all aluminum E36 radiator. But is is kind of pricey as compared to the OE radiator.

[Dave]

original in my car lasted until last summer - so 16 years, and about 180k miles.

OE replacement ones can be had on eBay for like 135-150 last time I checked.

I got a used one.

[eighteight325is]

It's a fair point and one that I am considering. It's just that I've never talked to any mechanic or radiator shop that had much good to say about radiators with plastic side tanks. I may just end up with an OE replacement but I think if I can install a superior part for about the same price why not?

I agree, the E36 rads from Zionsville and Bimmerworld are nice, but super expensive. I think the mfr date on the 88's was from September onward that could accept the E36 radiators.

[NC325iC]

mines on 18 years this month still cold ice