Well my radiator started leaking today. Looking at replacements I find 2 listed. a 22.5 in and a 26.5 in width radiator. Mine has the smaller one, but it appears there is enough room to install the wider radiator. Does anyone know of a reason not to do this?
The two I was looking at come from pepboys. brand is Spectra models, cu982 and cu981. Thanks for your advise.


Edit to add, this is for a 87 3.9 motor, 4x4

 

Shouldn't be any reason not to. Rockauto only lists the larger radiator for your truck.

 

Thanks for your reply. But I see 7 listings, various brands, but 2 sizes for the 87 3.9. Of the spectra brand they show the cu981 and cu982. My concern is bolting up and hose hook up.

 

Sorry, I saw the '93 'vette and it didn't register that you had an 87. I would still go with the larger radiator. Hose connections should work, and the bolt holes should be there (or you can do some magic with your drill.)

Nice thing about buying locally is if it doesn't fit, you can take the radiator back & get the smaller one.

 

edit to add, my apology for not posting the truck is a 87.

 

Quote:

Originally Posted by Brian in Tucson

I would still go with the larger radiator. Hose connections should work, and the bolt holes should be there (or you can do some magic with your drill.)

Nice thing about buying locally is if it doesn't fit, you can take the radiator back & get the smaller one.

'


That is kinda what I was thinking. The only thing I see, (after looking closer) is the fan shroud is not going to cover the whole radiator. But hopefully I will be converting to an electric fan soon. I hope to eventually go v8 and that is going to require the new fan. Thanks again for your opinions.

 

I'm running my 96, V8 without a fan shroud. Doesn't seem to hurt anything, tho I don't tend to open the hood with the engine running (I've grown quite attached to my fingers!)

 

Brian, sorry I have been so long getting back. Work is killing me lately. But I still have not ordered it yet. According to the FSM the v6 used both. It was called extra cooling capacity option. I am going to get it and leave the shroud off like you did for now. In the future, I plan to put an electric fan in front between the radiator and condenser. I want to put a 5.2 or 5.9 magnum motor in eventually.
As soon as I get caught up I will get back on it, but for now, I add coolant.