C-1 radiator

[Kevin T.]

I have a 59 fuelie whereby I replaced the original radiator with a Dewitts aluminum direct fit about 7 years ago. It just developed some leaks in the core (looks like corrosion related) and now I am faced with the decision on a re-core versus a new one. Since I don't drive the car in the winter and probably put less than 1,000 miles per year on the car, I am surprised the radiator pooped out so soon. I have not had any real overheating problems.

I know Dewitts has a good reputation among the members, but this recent experience gives me cause for concern. What is the recommendation regarding a repair/replacement, and what should I do going forward to avoid a similar fate. I would appreciate any and all comments. Thanks. - Kevin

[John F.]

Re: C-1 radiator

Contact Tom Dewitt!

[Philip P.]

Re: C-1 radiator

What type of coolant mixture are you using?

[Thomas D.]

Re: C-1 radiator

what should I do going forward to avoid a similar fate. I would appreciate any and all comments. Thanks. - Kevin

Let's take a look at the radiator and see what happened. Maybe we can pro-rate it or something and get you into a brand new one. Using a premium premix coolant like Zerex G05 your radiator should last forever.

[Terry D.]

Re: C-1 radiator

Kevin
Very important what kind of mix you used in radiator. If you used tap water instead of distilled water it can cause problems. Agree with John, contact Tom DeWitt and he wil take care of you. Been there, done that and very pleased with service from Tom.
Terry

[Kevin T.]

Re: C-1 radiator

I believe my mechanic used a mixture of Prestone coolant and tap water. He just received the new radiator from DeWitts that I ordered and will now install it. I will make sure he uses distilled water from now on. I will ship the old radiator back to DeWitts using the packaging from the new one. After Tom inspects it, I will know more. I appreciate the fact that Tom has agreed to look at the old radiator and provide me with feedback. Thanks to all. - Kevin

[Thomas D.]

Re: C-1 radiator

Kevin, I looked at the radiator today and it is actually a Griffin brand radiator. We sold those before we started making our own units, which I think was more like 8-9 years ago. The lower hose connector did have a hole eaten right through it so I'd have to conclude that mineral from the tap water caused an early death. You should have better luck with the new one using the proper distilled water and AF

[Kevin T.]

Re: C-1 radiator

Tom:

The new radiator has been installed and I seem to have no problems. However, my temperature gauge now reads that the engine temp tops out at about 140-150 degrees - even on an 80+ degree day. It used to operate at about 170-175 degrees but would then start to creep up to over 180 degrees if I was idling at a traffic signal or train crossing for awhile. Is it possible that the engine is actually operating that much cooler with the new radiator? Or might there be some issue with the thermostat or temp sending unit? Thanks. - Kevin

[John F.]

Re: C-1 radiator

I would say you bought the finest radiator available, but put the old IR gun on it and related parts (hoses, thermostat, waterpump, etc) to see what actual temp is.

[Terry D.]

Re: C-1 radiator

Kevin
What thermostat did you install? This time of year without the humidity my car runs 10 to 15 degrees cooler even on a 85 degree day. But agree with previous post, get an ir gun and check the temp that way.
Terry