Wrong radiator! I scored a radiator today that is in better shape then mine and damned if it isn't completely WRONG because it's for a manual transmission. Now I have a decent radiator but I'll have to get a trans cooler to use it. WTF? It completely didn't cross my mind when we were pulling it out either, I feel like a moron. The original(?) 71 cap is 15lbs and mine is 16 so I don't feel so bad now.
Old radiators are just that................old radiators. Don't be surprised if this one leaks too. Been there---done that. Bite the bullet and buy a new one. And and the biggest transmission cooler you can afford, even if the new one has one already. Run the fluid thru the radiator cooler first, then into the air to oil cooler.
Use an external cooler, If the cooler (fluid warmer) in the radiator springs a leak, you are guaranteed to fill the trans up with radiator juice. I can guarantee the clutches in the trans wont like this. Besides why run the trans hotter than it needs to run.
You're better off with an external cooler anyway...I don't even run my tranny through the radiator...just using an external unit.
I agree with not running a stock transmission cooler or "warmer" as mentioned. I've always ran aftermarket transmissions coolers, and gotten the biggest that would fit. The newer radiator you got might work, but it's only a matter of time. A new one, even copper/brass will perform a lot better than a old radiator, and last a heck of a lot longer.
LOL this "new" one is a 71 vintage. It's just not green like mine is. One day I will have money and I will make this car all it wants to be. It just needs to hang in there until I can do it!
Yup. I agree. That is why mine is just all painted up with spray cans. Just to keep it rust free until I can afford to have it painted correctly.
Mine has all sorts of jerry rigs to keep it going. One day it will be a magazine car, I just know it!
