Thread: Radiators - copper or alloy?

The red OAT coolant in the D2 td5 is not recommended for copper or brass components so you would have to change the coolant to the green stuff. Which as been discussed here time and time again

Copper is a better heat conductor, so would theoretically cool better. But I am guessing you want the alloy one since you can then use the red OAT coolant that is suitable for the alloy engine.

Originally Posted by Trippy

Copper is a better heat conductor, so would theoretically cool better. But I am guessing you want the alloy one since you can then use the red OAT coolant that is suitable for the alloy engine.

Copper better than Aluminium? Don't think so.

Happy Days.

Aluminium radiators are considerably lighter, which is why (nearly) every automobile has them now. Also cheaper .

Keep with the original design, as introducing a new metal (Copper - Cu) may create some interesting galvanic currents (ie corrosion issues) that no additives in the coolant can stop. Any aluminium components will corrode due to the copper.

Aluminium beer cans get cold real quick, so alloy must be good HIC

Originally Posted by joel0407

Copper better than Aluminium? Don't think so.

Happy Days.

Well, copper is quite a lot better at conducting heat compared to aluminium: [ame="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_thermal_conductivities"]List of thermal conductivities - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia[/ame]

But as other people have stated, copper is more expensive, heavier and will generate corrosive problems when used together with an alloy engine.

From the consensus it seems like alloy is the go mainly due to compatability with Oat. Having recently restored my car to using Oat I'll probably stick with this. Thanks to all for your comments!

Willis

Tought I would pop this in as its related.
The young fella here needed a replacement radiator for his D1 200tdi.
Bought a copper one on ebay from one of the well known Sydney suppliers.
When it came it was an alloy one. They agreed to take it back but it being needed in a hurry it was installed.
He was/is using the green glycol coolant.
Should he change to the red or will all be OK with the green?

Didiman