Radiator clarification / consensus Needed

[Tom B.]

My mind is starting to play tricks on me again.

Other than the factory aluminum radiators for most all Corvette small blocks 1963 on up (which seems clear to me), and excepting the application for some big block aluminum radiators like the 1965 L78 and the L88 years, aren't the big block radiators from 1966 on up copper cored brass radiators? If so, (and other than "Harrison") then how are they most often referred to? Copper? Brass? Both / Either? Any help with my understanding would be appreciated. TBarr #24014

[Joe L.]

Re: Radiator clarification / consensus Needed

Tom----

Yes, except for the big block applications which you mentioned which used the HD GM #3007436 aluminum radiator, all other big blocks used a brass radiator. As far as I know, these radiators used brass tanks and cores. Brass is, of course, an alloy of copper, zinc, tin and other metals. I believe that the alloy used for the core is much higher in copper than the alloy used for the tanks, however. As far as I know, though, they both qualify as "brass". My understanding could be incorrect, though, and I would welcome correction if someone has contrary information.

Also, all radiators originally used on Corvettes were manufactured by GM's Harrison Division in Lockport, NY. To this very day, I believe. Although, now Harrison is part of GM's spin-off company, DELPHI Automotive. That's what the "H" in DELPHI represents.

[Tom B.]

Re: Radiator clarification / consensus

Joe,

Thanks. Before anyone gets on any tangent, like about how much copper is in the brass, let me just say that your input alone is enough of a consensus for me. Thanks again for the clarification and the additional info. TBarr #24014