So I need a new radiator...

took my car in today for an inspection and the report came back that I would need a new radiator. Now I expected to hear this, I've seen the patina of coolant overflow and the car almost overheated on me this past weekend during my drive, so this was not a surprise. What was a surprise was when they quoted me $544.44 for a "CU353" radiator assembly. I looked this up and it is from summit racing but they have it listed for $339.97. The one they have on Melvins classic Ford parts is$350.00 which still seems steep. Can anyone tell me if there is a difference between the two? the part number on Melvins is "339RADIATOR" I need the 302/ v8 model plus a shroud. The gentleman at the garage said he would allow me to source my own radiator and bring it to him.

My car is a 71 comet GT

I would appreciate any help as I am a novice at best.

Thanks so much

 

You can get a stock replacement radiator from your local parts store for around $200. You can also get a Champion aluminum radiator from Jegs for around $170 - $180 shipped. That shop is trying to rip you off.
Installing a radiator in a Maverick/Comet is super easy. No need to pay a shop to do that.

 

Agreed........very simple job with basic tools.

 

I suppose that is a possibility I did notice that the fins on the engine side of the radiator looked heavily damaged like someone intentionally pushed on them. I am not sure what recoring actually entails, if it means replacing the fins then I could source a radiator guy to do that. I am sure my green underbelly is showing after that comment.

 

I do like the idea of a new radiator and I will have a look on the page you suggested. The nice thing about my car is i also acquired the previous owners tool collection so tools are no longer an issue for me. I want to get my hands dirty, but I am a little apprehensive without knowing exactly which radiator is THE radiator.

P.s I am also originally from colorado

#noobproblems

 

I bought mine from O'Reilly's... Was something like $160...

 

Re-core is essentially a new radiator with your old original tanks.

 

I have the cc339 Champion aluminum radiator and E-fan w/shroud.

I have the shroud for sale if you go 16" E-fan. (PM if interested)

http://www.championradiators.com/Ford-Maverick-radiator-3-row-1971-1977

 

with the aftermarket rads. being so cheap my rad. Guy doesn't re-core anymore.

 

Thanks for all the replies everybody I ordered a new radiator from Jegs this morning and I will do the install myself. I'll let you know how it goes.

 

O.K. Nidus: Be Cool ! ( couldn't resist it )
Chip

 

I know this thread is a little old but I'm dealing with an issue. I have had my radiator patched on the upper tank twice but it keeps developing leaks around the upper part of the radiator. It's a 74 with a 302. I see replacement radiators online for the 74 but they all list six-cylinder as the application. Does anyone know where I can find a V8 replacement radiator?

 

I have one out of a 75 302 auto trans AC car. It did not leak previously, but that car was wrecked and has been sitting for about 3 years. I would definitely have it cleaned and checked were I to use it again.