I have a 1990 CRX with the Go Auto Works turbo kit, cast iron manifold. The original radiator fit well enough but I was overheating and thought that I was probably getting heat soak since it was a full size and the turbo was so close. I installed an EG Fluidyne radiator but it was a bit too tall and wouldn't sit properly in place without hitting the hood. Looking for a budget radiator that will fit my application. Was thinking of going Skunk2 or just an aluminum full size rad from eBay. Not sure what my best option would be what do you guys think? Also ordered some header wrap and a turbo blanket so hopefully that will help keep temps down. Thanks!

 

your stock radiator will work fine you just need to wrap a few things under the hood to keep the heat away from it

but if your set on useing a radiator that isnt stock then the volkswagon scirocco radiator fits where your ac condenser would be
so its further away from the exhaust and will work for years to come and never get the heat soak problem
its cheap also its like 50 bucks new

the scirocco you need to get the radiator from is the 1983-1988 generation

but then again this is just what i ran for about 3 years boosted once apon a time ^_-

 

Skunk2 half rad for the EF is probably the best fitting option with the least amount of work to install. Only thing is some trimming the underside of the hood to clear the cap.

I would agree with getting a half rad to get it away from the turbo heat, but be prepared to possibly need some more work to keep things cool. As Marco said you need a turbo blanket and heat wrap. Make sure to run a high quality fan like a 12" SPAL with the highest CFM rating and a relay.

I am currently working on getting my temps down with this setup while on the highway, doing some more ducting and shielding of the rad to get cool air to it and block the heat.

 

i don't even think i'm runing a rad right now, its not like there's a manufacturer that even makes them for turbocharged 91 Civic hatchbacks, let alone 91 SI's

 

I have a Mishimoto half stack on mine and have never had an issue. In all honesty, I would go cheap on something crucial like a radiator. If you go cheap and something goes wrong, there goes your engine. Think of it as cheap insurance to improve the reliability & longevity of the car.

Also, several aftermarket companies make radiators for EFs that fit right. I strongly recommend getting one that was made specifically for a CRX, if not you'll need custom brackets to make sure it clears everything

 

Scirocco rad ftw.

Better than any halfcore you could ever put into a crx!!!! Tucked crx radiator.

Pics are dead because of photobucket... but yeah, it's a great budget solution