Underneath the hood of modern cars is a complex web of refined machinery, where every cog and screw moves in sync to power these cars forward. This friction and resistance produce heat. The failure to reduce this heat will cause the engine to break down, making the cooling system a crucial aspect. All cars, irrespective of their use for daily errands or in premier competitions, are bound to heat up. A cooling mechanism allows an engine to work at its peak potential by releasing the heat. A key component of the cooling system is the radiator, which uses air to cool the engine.
Things You Should Know Before Purchasing a Radiator
Correct Model
Carefully check the product description: it will specify the car engine and model for which it is designed. Simply put, a radiator designed for a Honda model will not fit a Mustang. If you plan to replace your engine, find a radiator that is compatible.
Coolant Level
Coolant is ideally an equal mix of antifreeze and water. This fluid is pumped around the engine to reduce heat generation with the help of the radiator. The function of antifreeze, as the name suggests, is to keep the water in the radiator from either freezing or boiling in extreme temperatures. Radiators commonly overheat because of insufficient coolant. So, it is important that you check the coolant level annually or when servicing your car. Coolant that has gone bad is generally a shade of rust rather than yellow or green.
Metals Used
Modern engineering has replaced the traditional usage of copper and brass with cost-effective aluminum cores. This change has allowed companies to manufacture lighter and more potent radiators that offer better and faster cooling. Vintage cars may still use older metal compositions if their engines have not been upgraded.
Radiator Cap
A radiator cap is designed to withstand a certain amount of pressure and to release pressure when it exceeds the predetermined limit. Another factor to account for is the per square inch (psi) of
pressure of the cap. The thumb of rule is the higher the psi, the greater the performance. But, a higher psi cap cannot be randomly replaced because cooling systems are designed for specific pressure levels. Excessive pressure could create leaks through the gaskets, damaging the radiator and eventually, causing the engine to breakdown.
Spectra’s automotive parts have shown immaculate performance over the years. The company specializes in the designing, manufacturing, and distribution of cooling systems and ignitions as well as in fuel delivery and engine management. Spectra is known for both aftermarket and OEM products for most automobiles. Their radiators are considered to be among the best. This crossflow radiator is designed for Chevrolet and GMC cars.
Pros
Quality precedes its reputation and this is apparent during usage
Made with rubber compounds equipped to handle extreme temperatures
Offers maximum cooling efficiency
The use of aluminum allows for better flow
Comes with a two-year warranty
OE comparable configuration and appearance
Cons
Price quoted by auto stores are greater than those on e-commerce sites
TYC is known to deliver quality within an affordable range. Their products are in direct market competition with those of other esteemed brands. They manufacture automotive parts ranging from car lights to window regulators. This particular radiator is designed for Honda Accord models.
Pros
Tested on Honda Accord models before release
OE comparable configuration and appearance
Comes with an aluminum-treated coating to prevent corrosion and for better longevity
Price is competitive compared with those for similar products
Available with a limited lifetime warranty
Cons
Comes without a cap and so, buyers will have to purchase a new one or use an old radiator cap.
Koyo products not only are flexible and resistant to harsh elements but also are designed for continuous heat cycling. This model is made for the 93-97 Toyota Land Cruiser and 96-97 Lexus LX450 4.5L AT.
Pros
OE comparable configuration and appearance
Premium quality status positions it as a high-end brand
Fits perfectly in compatible models
Open fins provide unbridled airflow
Cons
Excessively high priced
Denso is a global manufacturer of automotive parts that is well known for its radiators. Denso 221-3220 is designed for Honda Civic models manufactured between 2001 and 2005.
Pros
Almost identical to the car’s original radiator
Easy installation and so, you could avoid a visit to the mechanic
Low priced considering the product quality and you may even find a better offer online
Made of plastic that limits the weight to only 12 lbs
Cons
Doesn’t work for all Honda models
