Radiator Options

[Marcel Backs]

My original radiator developed a leak in the core at some point. Can this core be repaired or is this rad not serviceable due to the obsolete nature of the core design? Can a modern core material be installed onto my tanks by a local rad shop? Radiators seem to be a bit of a challenge for MOPAR compared to the other marques. Input from anyone having already solved this piece of the puzzle would be greatly appreciated. Best Regards, M

[MarcDeSoto]

Yes, i have a 48 DeSoto radiator that the radiator shop said the core is shot.  He said he could re-core it with a modern core design that looks good.  He showed me a core that was not the old honeycomb design, but would work and not look very far off from original.  But the cost would be around $1200.  The only reason I didn't go through with this plan was I was tipped off to an NOS radiator still in the box!  

[RobertKB]

I had the radiator in my ‘51 Dodge D39 business coupe recored recently by a local shop who like working on the old radiators. $CDN500 or around $US400. Being charged $1200 for a recore is highway robbery. 
 

Your old radiator may be able to be repaired if it checks out OK. I’ve gone that route with other old radiators. 

[MarcDeSoto]

Yes, I agree about highway robbery, but radiator shops don't have a lot of competition now, so they can charge what they want.

[Sniper]

7 hours ago, Marcel Backs said:

Can a modern core material be installed onto my tanks by a local rad shop

 

 

You ought to be asking the local radiator shop that question.  None of us here know what they can, or won't, do.

[Frank Gooz]

Marcel,

I very short while ago I had my 1950 Dodge radiator recored. I used a modern looking core. The cost was just about 600. 00.

The turnaround was only a few days, The Brass works can also supply a core and do the work.

 

[Doug&Deb]

If you’re not concerned about originality an aluminum radiator is an option. I don’t remember where I bought mine for my 52 Coronet but it was under $150.00