It seems like the most common reason for stock radiator failure is leakage from either the top or bottom where the plastic components are located. This makes me want to get a one piece all aluminum radiator to eliminate that problem. My questions are:

1.Why are most stock radiators made with plastic covers?

2.Are there any cons to all aluminum radiators?

 

Plastic tank radiators are cheaper to manufacter, due to using cheaper materials. How long are you planning on keeping the car for? Most people who have this issue, their radiators are 15+ years old. Performance wise there is no difference, asthetic wise yes, plus technically the materials are stronger using all aluminum; hoses will burst long before either radiator calls it quits (If for whatever reason the radiator cap didn't release pressure). Its the heat cycles that cause the problem.

 

No i have a ebay 1, and its all good!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

 

Thanks for the help

 

No disadvantage to all aluminum. Being all one material, there's less of a chance of it leaking where the two are attached, but oem radiators can last plenty long. If you need a new one, get aluminum. If your OEM radiator works fine and doesn't leak, keep it.

 

Make sure you use grounding wires... it is aluminum after all..

 

Um what? WTF do grounding wires have to do with an aluminum radiator?

 

I think he believes that the rubber isolators on the bottom and the rubber bushing in the radiator stay will not prevent electrolysis (sp?).

OP, the only thing to worry about it electrolysis. However, if you use the rubber bushings on the bottom of the radiator (where it sits in the rad support) and retain the rubber bushing in the upper radiator stay(s) (no reason you should be taking them out anyways), you will have no problems.

 

as long as you have a lifetime warranty, you're good to go (make copies, pdf scan of your reciepts)

i had a plastic/aluminum go after 7 years & it was covered including shipping