Author Topic: Radiator Compatibilities (Read 3936 times)

ejust · « **on:** September 19, 2005, 09:45:20 pm »

im curious here..what radiators will work in my MK2 86 TD Jetta??

The one i have seems like it goes across the whole darn car. The fan shroud that bolts to it doesnt even goes as wide as the core it self. (Core is like 4-6in? wider than shroud). Ive found out that there are several sizes out there. I think i have the huge one for a/c equipped models.

What can i use??? Id like to use a smaller one if i could (no a/c anymore). (Golf or Rabbit type?

?)

Mine has the pins at the bottom of the radiator by the way for mounting.

A smaller radiator would be great and give me some room to lay with a possible IC then too.

If someone has a smaller one that would work..let me know..id be interested.

VolkSport · « **Reply #1 on:** September 19, 2005, 11:24:26 pm »

I am also wondering this too, I picked up a brand new radiator out of a Golf at an auto wrecker's. Will there be enough cooling from the smaller radiator? The one I have now is the full sized one and is in perfect conditioned but it is filled with tiny little rocks and overheats when stopped for long periods of time or in rush hour so I put in a manual fan switch. I also assume the rad hoses would need to be changed if going to a smaller radiator?

fatmobile · « **Reply #2 on:** September 20, 2005, 12:50:48 am »

Something to look for is what direction the top radiator hose inlet is pointing.
For the A2 gassers it points straight toward the engine.
For the A2 diesel it points toward the passenger fender.
The gasser one won't work because it points toward the diesel alternator.

ejust · « **Reply #3 on:** September 24, 2005, 08:14:45 am »

new hoses can be gotten..but will it affect much by using a 525mm radiator vs a 675??

ejust · « **Reply #4 on:** September 27, 2005, 01:41:51 pm »

bump..hoping to get other answers too..

anyone?

KTZed · « **Reply #5 on:** November 21, 2007, 10:25:34 am »

Bumping from the past. I have a big (not sure exact size) rad and it leaks and looks like it will hinder my intercooler install. What are everyones thoughts on putting in a smaller rad?

BlackTieTD · « **Reply #6 on:** November 22, 2007, 06:36:24 am »

a larger rad was often fitted at the factory for cars equipped with air conditioning.