Carmodifier

Hey guys,

I need a new radiator and am wondering what's the best one to go with? I heard aftermarket radiators are a little better for airflow, and a lot cheaper than a replacement OEM. The only downside that I have heard to an aftermarket radiator is that fitment might not be identical and this may cause rattling. What have you guys gone with in replacing your radiator? Thanks in advance!

NSXNEXT

iTrader: (2)

Radiators do not provide "air flow". Unless you are highly modified (read f/i) the oem or and aftermarket of the oem style radiator is just fine.

If you want to do something to the cooling system, get the Mugen mods (radiator fan switch, thermostat, and radiator cap).

CleanCL

iTrader: (4)

I had a custom full aluminum radiator made through Excelerate here on the site. Quality was amazing and it held more coolant. But for my purposes, I believe it was more for show than anything else. The larger capacity of coolant has a LITTLE benefit, but not much. Fitment was dead-on.

I've got an OEM radiator in excellent condition that fits the Type S for sale. If you are interested PM me.

Carmodifier

Sounds interesting. If you don't mind me asking, how much did it cost? Also, do you have any pictures? Thanks!

1HOTCLS

CleanCL

iTrader: (4)

https://acurazine.com/forums/2g-cl-2001-2003-50/xlr8-custom-aluminum-radiators-488381/

Carmodifier

Hey CleanCL,

I read your DIY for the radiator install. I just wanted to verify that you can use the same mounting brackets/bolts/etc. that the OEM radiator used to bolt down the XLR8 Custom Aluminum Radiator. Is it really that smooth that it can just slide in the place of the OEM radiator without no modifications needed to make it fit (even though it is twice the size as the OEM)?

Thanks!

CleanCL

iTrader: (4)

Yup, fits perfect, just follow the instructions I said.

zeta

iTrader: (1)

There is an alternative all aluminium radiator from CSF if you are inclined to a little fabrication work regarding the upper A/C and cooling fan brackets.

I got mine for $271 shipped back in July 2007. CSF #3011 all aluminium Street Racing model fits in the CLS-6 and I can get the hood shut.


http://www.csfimports.com/cats.asp
http://www.csfimports.com/csf_catalo...sp?CSF_NO=3011

zeta

iTrader: (1)

fixed

Carmodifier

I am probably going to go with the XLR8 Custom Aluminum Radiator due to the fact that I don't want to do fabrication to make the radiator fit. But thanks for the info. I appreciate it!

Carmodifier

Hey CleanCL,

On your DIY thread a couple members asked if you noticed any difference in coolant temps, engine temps, throttle response, heat soak, etc. I know at the time you were unable to push your car because the roads were still icy. Now that you have had time, have you noticed a difference in temperatures?

Also on your DIY thread you said, "I'm looking into some custom radiator hoses for our cars too because a lot of heat gets thrown right into the throttle body/intake from our current hoses." I was wondering what you found on this. I plan on getting a custom high performance illuminated glass hose made from Killerglass and possibly a Clear Coolant Tank (http://killerglass.com/).

Thanks for your help on this!

CleanCL

iTrader: (4)

Actually the CL is gone.

To better summarize the benefits here is some info:
"One of the secrets of the Griffin radiator is the larger tubes found inside the radiator core. Unlike most commercial and OE radiators, the tubes of a Griffin radiator measure 1.25 and 1.5 inches, allowing a substantially higher rate of coolant circulation. In addition, Griffin radiators are built to withstand greater coolant pressure. In fact, some Griffin radiators include a high-capacity water pump that forces coolant through the system at a higher rate (perhaps even higher than an OE radiator)."

Also the all aluminum construction will outlive your car, never need a radiator again.

The hoses I never got around to, but the inherent design to me appeared to heat soak the throttle body heavily during a stop. There are some options to prevent heat from exit the tubes, but I just never got around to it.

I have to say though, the first time I turned over the car after installing the radiator and doing a simple bleeding of the system, I NEVER had a coolant problem. I NEVER saw the needle rise above normal. And yes, everything mounted properly, I reused the stock brackets, and the fans mounted on like factory.

brianlin87

iTrader: (1)

what happened to your 3.5L beast? sold?

CleanCL

iTrader: (4)

No worries, it is still alive, just passed hands (sold).

I have moved on to TL SH-AWD.

brianlin87

iTrader: (1)

sold to a relative? this is news to me. i never saw a thread for your part out.