1960s Replacement Radiator Recommendation

[dbzsjones]

I'm working on my 1961 Series 62 and need a radiator, the original is gone.  It appears most of the aftermarket have a straight bottom outlet as opposed to the original curved outlet.  However, I found this one at Radiator Express https://www.radiatorexpress.com/product/radiator/cadillac/1961/series%2062/base/64l-v8/230555/1320477
and was wondering if anyone has experience with this brand and can offer an opinion on the product.
Thanks,
Del

[Big Fins]

Reading the description, it is pretty much straight forward. That's a lot more than you get from most companies these days. I have no experience with them, I used Cool Craft for my 59 radiator.

[TJ Hopland]

US Radiator I think is your only other option and I think the difference with them is you get to select core types from original to slightly updated to the most high tech depending on what blend of look and performance you are going for.

https://usradiator.com/radiator-finder?make=Cadillac&model=All+Models+1961-74&_year=1961

[Clewisiii]

Don't know if it helps but I like pictures. Original Radiator with AC showing lower coolant lines.

I debated if I want to try to recreate the markings someday.

[Clewisiii]

After Re-core. I paid $500 to have it re-cored Locally



The new copper end plates did not have the holes for the radiator overflow pipe.



I very delicately cut holes avoiding penetrating the tubes.

[Michael Petti]

I did mine for about the same price locally. Has worked well.

[TJ Hopland]

Recently for $500?

[Clewisiii]

Recently as October 2023

[dbzsjones]

According to Radiator Express their copper/brass version is an exact stock replacement built to factory blueprint and made to order.  At $660 it sounds like a good buy if re-core is about $500, probably higher out here in LA, and I'd still need to source tanks.

[Big Fins]

I'm surprised the re-corer didn't coat the unit with the anti-corrosive paint before returning it to the customer.

[Clewisiii]

I'm surprised the re-corer didn't coat the unit with the anti-corrosive paint before returning it to the customer.

He asked if I wanted him to. I said no since I had to cut tge holes on the end. Plus he admited they just use rustoleum.

[Big Fins]

I guess times change. Radiators used to be coated in a heavy, almost asphalt pitch based coating before they were returned to you. You had to wear gloves putting them back in because you couldn't get that stuff off of your hands.

I would think the Rustoleum would look a lot nicer with a smoother finish.

[TonyZappone #2624]

I am surprised that there is so much concern about replacing radiators.  I have had many radiators recored at local shops, these last 60 years.  Why would you want to replace tanks and fittings, usually they are good shape.

[Jay Friedman]

I am surprised that there is so much concern about replacing radiators.  I have had many radiators recored at local shops, these last 60 years.  Why would you want to replace tanks and fittings, usually they are good shape.

I agree with Tony. I've always been able to get them fixed at local radiator shops.

[Clewisiii]

Dels issue is he does not have the original radiator. So paying for a radiator, then possibly paying to have it recored is more expensive then buying a new replacement.

[TJ Hopland]

A radiator shop is a pretty rare thing these days so for many people a 'local' shop just doesn't exist.  Aluminum plastic pretty much took over in what the early 90's?  So demand went way down so they were not expanding and bringing in new talent or equipment.  I believe regulations also make it difficult for many of them to keep going and with less demand they just didn't bother making changes to comply. 

I have not had one done for maybe 6 years now.  Just did a quick search and that shop looks to have closed 5 years ago.  I remember having trouble finding that shop at the the time because the one I had used previously had closed.  I got 7 results but without digging too deep I'm gonna guess at best maybe 2 of the results may actually be real radiator shops, the others kinda have that smooth marketing targeted search kinda feel to them at first glance.

[dbzsjones]

If I had an original radiator, I'd definitely be looking to re-core it.  Unfortunately it went missing while the car was in storage.  Technically 2 went missing.  My guess is they went out the back door and off to a recycler    I went looking for an original and found a set of tanks on eBay for $100 plus $35 Shipping.
https://www.ebay.com/itm/235958228170

Then I still need to find a shop in So Cal that will re-core it for a price that makes it competitive to the new radiator.  While my latent OCD tendencies make me want to use as much original equipment as possible, I also need to remember this car is never going to Pebble Beach. I'm restoring it to drive and enjoy, so cost effective quality parts are my goal.

[TJ Hopland]

Let us know if you find anything in your area.  I think the only positive you have there is one of the higher concentrations of classic cars.   

[Clewisiii]

I used a radiator shop near my home. I found a radiator shop near my work whose front sign said Radiator Repair. Out of curiosity I stopped one day to ask about recoring my radiator. They said they do not do that. Only new replacements. I had to comment that there is a definition difference between repair and replacement.

[Big Fins]

There is definitely a different education system today.