aluminum radiator suggestions

[jk79ta]

This has probably been asked many times, but I couldn't find it! Is there a direct fit aluminum radiator for the 2nd gen firebird? Also, if there is do you use the stock shroud? Does it really make a difference as far as temperature goes?
Thanks

[5th T/A]

Cold Case makes an all aluminum radiator that is bolt in using the original fan shroud. About four years ago I did an engine swap on my 1980 TA from a normally aspirated 301 to a Pontiac stroked 400 (461) now. The original radiator was only two row and I figured it was inadequate for my new engine. I am using the original shroud and 7 blade clutch fan. Running the AC in traffic the temperature has never gone above 192. I did have to purchase the larger rubber insulators that fit in the shroud, a set of four. They are available from cold case or most restoration suppliers. Cold case radiator uses large oval shaped cooling tubes. I think there might be lifetime guarantee too.

If you are having overheating problems it might be caused by things other than the radiator. Some of the aftermarket water pumps aren't as good and sometimes the rubber doughnuts behind the water pump can rot. If the AC condenser is plugged with dirt or the fins are bent from road debris that can reduce air flow to the radiator.

[nUcLeArEnVoY]

I second Cold Case. I bought one as part of an entire cooling system overhaul. My system is mediated by a 160 stat, and a lot of the time my car runs too cool if I'm not using AC (which I barely ever do). It definitely does the job.

[roadking77]

20240303_150313 by Kerry Grubb, on Flickr
Not much to see but this is the cold case I just installed in my 79 400. No problem at all. I have not run the motor yet but will take others word that it will work fine.

[jk79ta]

Thanks guys. I should have mentioned, no AC, Pontiac 400, automatic. I've replaced the water pump with I believe it was called flowcooler brand and also put a stainless divider plate in. I couldn't bend it to get the space between it and the motor smaller so it is just stock I guess. Also replaced the o-rings. Also replaced the fan clutch and radiator a while ago. Can't remember for sure but I think it was 4 row. Only gets hot on very hot days, when in stop and go traffic, or going up steep hills. Think I'll look into this.
Thanks, 

[rkellerjr]

Definitely, definitely, makes a diffference. I believe I also bought a cold case radiator and everything else is stock and worked great.

[scarebird]

The Summit house brand worked fine, though it was a 1/2" short height-wise in my Lemans.

What I bought:  https://www.summitracing.com/parts/sum-384000

[Wallington]

Fairly common that anyone with cooling issues related to a radiator fault are generally impressed with the improvement any new one makes. They just don't compare A with B, they stick with A and tell the world it's the best.