Welcome to the Corvette Forums at the Corvette Action Center!

Help! How to tell HD cooling or Std.

jwmagnusson

New member
Joined
Apr 4, 2008
Messages
4
Location
Plymouth, MI
Corvette
1981 Two Tone Coupe
Looking to replace radiator. Looking at direct fit units, copper and brass or Aluminum, but each ask if I have HD cooling. Cannot determine. Any suggestions? Is there a spec code or other indication? Car is stock and prefer to keep it that way, but see major advantages to Aluminium replacement units...but pricey...$495...versus $212 for Copper and Brass OEM.

Ideas? Thanks. John :confused
 
How do you determine if you have HD cooling??

Not sure if I have heavy duty cooling. Anyone know how to tell? Want to replace radiator and other related items, and all parts ask if I have heavy duty cooling. Cannot tell. Help??
 
Why are you replacing the radiator?

If the brass/copper radiator was keeping the engine cool, then I'd get the OEM replacement.

If the car was overheating with brass/copper, I'd go aluminum.

Good Luck!!!
 
HD cooling

Looking to replace radiator. Looking at direct fit units, copper and brass or Aluminum, but each ask if I have HD cooling. Cannot determine. Any suggestions? Is there a spec code or other indication? Car is stock and prefer to keep it that way, but see major advantages to Aluminium replacement units...but pricey...$495...versus $212 for Copper and Brass OEM.

Ideas? Thanks. John :confused

Food for thought. My 81 had standard cooling. The radiator was a three row. I replaced it with a direct fit four row for under $300.00. There was no modifications necessary, dropped right in. Also, I bought a seven blade HD fan and clutch on ebay for 75.00, again no mods necessary. I do not want to mislead you, in my opinion the swap is somewhat of a challenge. The shroud is a booger to get out. Take your time and it will work.
While I was at it, I replaced the water pump with a Stewart high flow, again a direct fit. The car runs cool at all times.
Good luck.
 

Corvette Forums

Not a member of the Corvette Action Center?  Join now!  It's free!

Help support the Corvette Action Center!

Supporting Vendors

Dealers:

MacMulkin Chevrolet - The Second Largest Corvette Dealer in the Country!

Advertise with the Corvette Action Center!

Double Your Chances!

Our Partners

Back
Top Bottom