Radiator recommendation.

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MalibuDavyou5

Master Mechanic
Mar 2, 2020
362
772
93
Wyoming
The Malibu sat in a shop for 18 years, though the radiator looked good, at least good enough for getting her started and back on the road, I am thinking it may be time to go ahead and swap it out for a new one, Anyone have any recommendations for a better performing/cooling after market Radiator? Some thing easier to install would be great.

1981 Chevy Malibu K 3.8L OHV
 

78BB-Pontiac

Apprentice
May 6, 2019
85
105
33
St.Paul, Minnesota
The Malibu sat in a shop for 18 years, though the radiator looked good, at least good enough for getting her started and back on the road, I am thinking it may be time to go ahead and swap it out for a new one, Anyone have any recommendations for a better performing/cooling after market Radiator? Some thing easier to install would be great.

1981 Chevy Malibu K 3.8L OHV
I have a Champion aluminum radiator with a dual electric fan set up cooling a big block in my Pontiac. I never have overheating problems.
 
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TURNA

Rocket Powered Basset Hound
Jul 24, 2009
10,941
19,990
113
Socialist NY
if you are keeping the stock 3.8 just go to a chain store {autozone, advance auto ot even rockauto) and get the newer style aluminum/plastic stock replacement.

No reason to to go nuts and spend a ridiculous amount of money on something that wont cool the engine any differently

Rockauto sells the radiators from 87 to 97 buxx

Autozone sells it for 120
 
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MrSony

Geezer
Nov 15, 2014
6,791
6,673
113
Des Moines, Iowa
Yep, el cheapo parts store rad will work. However, you can always plan ahead.
 
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85442/86buick

G-Body Guru
Feb 12, 2013
746
1,118
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Perth Country , Ontario
Yes , the really question is what is your plan for the drivetrain ?

if staying stock, the cheaper option of Rockauto wins.

if planning an swap of something bigger , than start looking at Champion or Cold case
 
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Fishbait17

Not-quite-so-new-guy
Oct 16, 2019
41
14
8
Champion radiator is what I run it run well and a affordable price
 
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