radiator options

Another item I need for the MGB is a radiator. I would prefer to use a aluminum one over a OEM style but am having a hard time finding a universal that will fit in the area that the stock fits with the 19" wide area that there is. Seen the post of the Mustang ones and 80 VW jetta or soemthing like that. Question is, has anyone found a universal aluminum that will fit in the stock area location?

Also thought about maybe tilting it a bit and installing a 12 electric that I have laying around, whats ya'll's thoughts?

Duane
Not knowing if your 76 is a late model or not. The later model started to have the engine bay look of the 77-80. If yours is the old style 76 like mine was, with the radiator right up against the engine mechanical fan. I would like to suggest an engine bay upgrade. I changed my engine bay to the 77-80 style. By front forwarding the radiator( I installed a 77-80 Radiator). This allowed me to get away from the mechanical Fan and use a 12 " puller mounted on the radiator with a shroud. I found the heating problems completely solved, and I do believe this might add a little to horse power, our cars are in much need of. It wasn't a big job but it sure did allow me to dress up a crowed engine bay. I have been told to have an aluminum radiator built is very expensive and I was able to easily pick up all the parts I needed thru this Forum. Brian at BMC sells the front radiator supports and I purchased a used 77-80 radiator in great shape. You will also need to get a new or used as I did again water outlet for the radiator as new hoses are also needed. Still cheaper than a new aluminum radiator. Just food for thought for you..... Ken

I'm assuming its the early style, here's a picture, hope it helps.

Duane, Ken is right about the price of an aluminum radiator. Usually at least double that of a standard radiator. Have you taken your radiator to a good radiator show and asked about increasing the capacity and putting in improved fins such as dimpled fins. What ever you do, in my opinion, is don't buy one of the cheap aftermarket radiators. Their capacity and design leave a lot to be desired.

I can find universal 1" wide 2 core aluminums for under 200 bucks easy, just not in the size I need, so was just wondering i anyone else out there has found something. I only paid 220 for my 29" wide by 19" tall dual core rad that cools my 500hp LS1 easily and Summit Racing list some for 160-180 bucks, but like I said, not in the allotted room the MG has. So was just wondering. I don't care for recoring old radiators, especially this one that seems really gone, if it was from a puncture, no problem, but this one is very aged.

Course if I can tilt the bottom forward and inch or two to clear the steering rack, I might be able to find one that will fit.

They sold quite a few more Chevys than they did MG's so those universal radiators tend to be a bit less expensive. If you want to fit something universal the best bet is to Sawzall the front frame rails. Otherwise there is the Mustang option, the Chinese made aluminum radiators sold on e-bay or you can check with the V8 crowd for sources of custom made aluminum radiators. And of course there is the stock unit which is more than adequate for engines up to about 180hp.

Duane,

I had to change my radiator in January and was after a light alloy one too. We have a supplier in here that has the light alloy one still on offe at
179 Euros and it is made for the 1968 - 1976 B.
Although it was an interesting offer, I ordered a brass one for two reasons:
1. The size of the radiator is very adequate for the B-series engine, even if it has been upgraded no matter what material it is made of.
2. With a brass radiator every plumber is able to give you a fix everywhere it might be necessary. Try this with a one off design nice alum. one...

Ralph

That's interesting to know Ralph. When I tried to get a quote for the MGC in alloy it was $600 and as was mentioned BIG difference in a GM rad and UK style car. Summit barely caters to Mopar and Ford let alone MG. FWIW.

If you insist on alloy, I'd be looking in the junk yards. Bound to be a Euro or Japanese car with proper diminsions. But I really like Ralph's spin on his choice and reasons.

You still stationed in Italy?

Forgot to mention the suppliers name: http://www.limora.com

Well good! Just enough time to inspect your steering rack and get a new replacement!
:D

Here ya go http://www.customaluminumradiator.com/node/detail/32016