The great radiator shortage of 2011 (metal topped one)

[rapiddescent]

I'm trying to find a metal topped radiator for a 2.5l diesel bongo - but there seems to be a bit of a shortage at the usual places of these due to the problems getting stuff from Japan at the moment.

I've got an option to use one of the cheaper black-plastic topped radiators but I'd prefer not to since it was one of those that split on me last week - although I might have to if I can't find a proper mazda one.

does anyone know if there any new all-metal radiators hiding in the UK at the moment?

[mikeonb4c]

I know there is a general downer on plastic topped ones at present, but are they really that bad? If the replacement lasts another 12+ years, and if you have a low coolant alarm fitted, is it going to be such a big issue?

I'm only saying this in case makes getting on with the job a bit easier

[rita]

Hi,
does this look like a metal topped radiator,give them a buz to make sure if you are interested.

Cheers.

http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/Mazda-Bongo-Freed ... 19bf73dfe1

[mikexgough]

The Plastic/Ally ones are the "pukka" factory design with Top and bottom plastic tanks..and yep I have had the classic split too.... I know you can get all metal ones.....BUT beware if they have any copper or solder in them......using OAT coolant will make 'em spring a leak....and Bongo's use that coolant chemistry in their homeland .........

For Coolant folks on here.....I have been working on a Vauxhall this week.... cooling issues and so needed some Red OAT coolant, went to the local trade counter....they had a Valvoline brand premix in 5 litre bottles that mixes with all coolants like Prestone and also concentrate.....I went for the Comma Red Xtream G30..... top stuff and chemistry is like Car Plan Red.....

[mikeonb4c]

The Plastic/Ally ones are the "pukka" factory design with Top and bottom plastic tanks..and yep I have had the classic split too.... I know you can get all metal ones.....BUT beware if they have any copper or solder in them......using OAT coolant will make 'em spring a leak....and Bongo's use that coolant chemistry in their homeland .........

For Coolant folks on here.....I have been working on a Vauxhall this week.... cooling issues and so needed some Red OAT coolant, went to the local trade counter....they had a Valvoline brand premix in 5 litre bottles that mixes with all coolants like Prestone and also concentrate.....I went for the Comma Red Xtream G30..... top stuff and chemistry is like Car Plan Red.....

Overall then, speaking as someone whose Bongo is 16yrs old and has I suspect been properly looked after, and whose rad. seems still to be fine, I wonder if the (alleged) pluses of getting a metal radiator (of uncertain pedigree) amount to much of an advantage over getting a 'plastic' one (of more certain pedigree)

[nfn]

I agree with mikeonb4c, that the original equipment plastic-topped radiators are good, and last a long time. I bought an OE spec plastic-topped one from the Mazdabongoshop last year, and the fit and finish are good. It cools very efficiently -- my Mason adjusted gauge stays under 12 o'clock. Even if I restart the engine 5 or 10 minutes after a long run, the rad quickly cools it from 1 o'clock or so back down below 12 within a minute or two.

[corblimey]

I tried to find one recently and was told by a specialist rad supplier that they are not readily available. In the end I plumped for a plastic tanked one figuring if it's good for another 16 years that good for me. Besides in the year 2027 I fully expecting our Bongos to be driven by flux capacitors and hence we'll have no need for a radiator

I'm pretty sure Allan of Allan's in Plymouth said he could get one but I don't think he holds them in stock.

[rapiddescent]

Got one from bongobits in the end, apparently it looks pretty good and is being fitted at the moment...