Thread: Aluminium radiators

I have changed out my corroded old Copper unit in my 300tdi for a 3 core High flow ally custom jobie from China. It was well made (all TIG vacum welded etc) BUT it didn't fit.... Like everything. They made the bases for the mounting pins to long so I have to remake the frame that holds the unit in place (bonnet only just clears it).

If you have the money get a locally made custom unit to suit your needs. Or replace it with a new copper unit and fit and oil cooler to assist.

Some on this board have also vented the bonnet area to extract more hot air which I believe works well if done correctly.

Plenty of users on this board will be able to give a better technical response and hope they chime in for you.

I recently installed a generic ebay alloy radiator into my series 3. It is working well with keeping water temps cool.

Holden Aluminium Radiator 28inch Torana Kingswood HQ Commodore 186 202 308 | eBay

Welding is very good and the only difference I can notice between it and the aussie made alloy radiators is that the tubes on the Chinese ones are ever so slightly smaller in diameter.


Mine has been in for 3 months without any dramas. For $150, I am wrapped.

You can get a 5 core rad for Disco's from Nat Rad,I had one fitted to mine,$700 fitted. Pat

The Copper units shed heat better than alloy - always will when same for same is used (same area etc)...

The factory radiator is more than up to the task, and mine did admirably in my V8 disco in stock and supercharged 5.0l form in all weather conditions and loads.

Upgrades really are the realm of items that aren't up to the task (axles etc could fall into this category) but the Radiator on these vehicles really does not, its more than up to the task.

The shortcoming is often poor maintenance or upkeep, age, and external (Mud etc).

No radiator will make up for being covered in dry mud

Keep the excess $$$ in your pocket for other mods (or trip money)