8 replies to this topic

[Buzzword]

Hi all, 

 

I'm looking to replace my radiator and hoses as mine are in a bit of a state. I'm looking at 2 options really

 

Replace with a standard minispares 3 core for about £60

http://minispares.co...px|Back to shop

 

Or get this fletcher alu dealy for £80 (?!!) from huddersfield spares

http://www.minispare...r-classic-mini/

 

The reason I'm considering the alu one is I would assume it has a drain plug. Does anyone have this one who can say if that's the case??

I would really appreciate a drain plug instead of fighting with the bottom hose - seems like a bad design to change coolant!

 

The fletcher seems very cheap but I'm also a bit worried it will be too cool for a standard 998.

 

Any thoughts?

[imaparana]

ive got a fletcher one, comes with a 'wing nut' type drain plug which is handy, ive had one spring a leak but got replaced  but touch wood is ok now, if your worried about over cooling you could put in a higher thermostat?

 

Imaparana

[racingbob]

i think an alloy rad may be to much for it

 

was talking to a guy at bealuie he fitted one to his 1275

 

and just wouldnt warm up

 

im looking at possibly change mine and will go for a 2 core i think

 

bit worried about cheapy alloy ones, what could happen

[Mini Manannán]

Huddersfield through another site say there is a drain: http://picclick.co.u...1654454450.html  I'd be wary of anything too cheap, cynical old me...

[Spider]

I wouldn't touch any alloy radiator for these cars.

[Buzzword]

OK, thanks for the replies, I guess I knew the answer really - alloy will be too much cooling. I just wish it wasn't such an arse to drain the original design!!

 

Cheers

[idlethumbs]

I'm not 100% wether there is any differences in the rad itself but the later cars (spi) run a temp sensor in the bottom of the rad which controls the secondary fan in the wing which pushes in.
The sensor that was originally push fit is now changed in most aftermarket and minispares rads to a screw in one. This can be removed and replaced with a screw in blank which would give you your drain hole.
just another option although after reading my own post I've made it sound a bit complicated!!! Lol

[AlexMozza]

I wouldn't touch any alloy radiator for these cars.

How come? Just curious :)

[Dusky]

While there are very good chemical reasons not to Run an alloy rad(galvanic corrosion for example) overcooling shouldnt Be an issue. You Have a thermostat and Just look at the how good copper dissipates Heat vs copper.