CSF Radiator in SD?

[sdspearo]

Anyone know if there's a brick and mortar store in SD county that sells CSF all metal radiators? My plastic tank model sprung a leak and I want to wheel this weekend.

 

[WebDog]

Honestly I have found the stock replacements from AZ seem to work better than the all metal CSF ones. Went though two CSF radiators, a all aluminum one before going back to stock that ultimately got me back to correct temperatures.

 

[TheCaptain]

Same situation here... Fought high temps at highway speeds for two years. After replacing everything except my new CSF 3 core, I finally replaced it with an HD OEM and the temps instantly went back to normal.

 

[sidewaysstarion]

I'm running a Silla all aluminum radiator and I'm having issues with my jeep running a tad on the cold side on the highway and when the AC is on.

 

[sdspearo]

I don't have a temp problem, just want an all metal radiator since I haven't had good luck with plastic.

 

[Kevin3151]

I think the single row aluminum radiators have a larger tube in them and allow more flow. Just a guess. When they make it a three row it has to have smaller tubes in order to be the same overall size. My single row aluminum with plastic side tanks did great for years until recently when the XJ got totalled. I have to pull the radiator but as far as I know it still works. Might be bent a little.

I have a stock all metal radiator in the shed I pulled from a different jeep. I wish I knew someone that could rod and repair it. I dont want to take the trouble to install it if its partially clogged. It may be fine IDK.
Seems cheaper to just call 1800 radiator. Seems like they have it on your doorstep before you put the phone down.

KH

 

[markw]

I compared a griffin exact fit, an OEM Mopar, and a Visteon out of my wrecked one. The griffin had the thickest core, but you pay a premium. The mopar was about 1/4" thinner and I think had one less tube. The Visteon was a 1/2" thinner and was obviously the least amount of surface area. If you are going to spend the money get a Griffin or OEM Mopar (not aftermarket) replacement. Sure it will be more, but you won't be fighting temps.

 

[sdspearo]

Since no walk-in stores sell CSF in SD, I ended up ordering their 3 row all metal (p/n 2671) thru Amazon.
BTW, although the Amazon description says this p/n only fits 98-01, it will also fit my 96...verified by calling CSF.

 

[Ronbo]

Since no walk-in stores sell CSF in SD, I ended up ordering their 3 row all metal (p/n 2671) thru Amazon.

Post up what you think of the radiator - I have heard of a 'new' CSF having debris of some sort in it from the build process. I’ve seen enough questionable stuff to prefer a local radiator shop test it before I waste my time putting it in.

 

[sdspearo]

That's a good idea to test it before install (why didn't I think of that!?). I'll pressurize it to 15psi or so and check for any obvious leaks, athough I can't imagine the mfgr not performing a similar test after brazing up the assy.

 

[TheCaptain]

Hopefully you got a good one... My overheating at highway speeds was caused by a brand new CSF 3 row, and I have heard many similar stories.

 

[scottmcneal]

Hey Captain have you been driving it around in this 105/108 temps we're having out here? What the temps after going all stock?

 

[TheCaptain]

Yeah... Drove it around this afternoon, 192 highway - 206 around town.

 

[sdspearo]

Hopefully you got a good one... My overheating at highway speeds was caused by a brand new CSF 3 row, and I have heard many similar stories.

I've read many similar stories too, but for every one that says their CSF 3 row made things worse, there's another one saying it made things better. I didn't have a overheating problem with my oem and hopefully I won't have one with the new CSF. I just wanted to try out an all metal version to get away from the plastic tanks that I haven't had good luck with. I'll let you guys know how it turns out after I get it installed and get a few miles under it.

 

[Chip Clip]

About 4 years ago I purchased an all metal radiator from oreillys, not sure on the manufacturer. I just looked on their site and autozone and they both do not sell an all metal radiator anymore. I am wondering if I have to warranty it out if I will get one with the plastic tank or not.

 

[sdspearo]

Received the new CSF radiator and swapped it in. Overall workmanship seemed okay and it didn't have any loose debris inside as Ronbo mentioned to look out for. I didn't bother doing a pressure/leak test before install. So far, so good...engine seems to run at same temp as before. Below are some pics for comparison to a plastic OEM. The last pic shows where the plastic tank failed (it bowed in and pulled away from the metal crimped flange).

 

[jeeperjohn]

I really hate those lam drain plugs they put on radiators. I much prefer a proper ball valve or at least a better type of drain. I have used the CSF 3 core radiators before and had no complaints.