Engine Cooling Questions for a 240 (87)

lpkadlec

Guys,

We recently replaced the old hoses on my sons 1987 240. Now that the leaky hoses are fixed, we have found that under pressure the radiator itself leaks around the area where the plastic tanks are crimped to the core. So now I’m assuming its time to find a replacement and that’s where my questions come in.

What type of radiator do people use?

I’ve found OEM styles cheep (plastic tanks, alloy core). But then for a few extra dollars I’ve seen full alloy versions.

Then there is the question on the fan. Would it be recommended to change out the crank driven fan with an electric one? If so, is there a particular fan shroud to use?

Currently the car is an auto but we already have all the pieces to fit a M47 5 speed into the car. So, is there much difference between the manual vs automatic radiator?

Thanks in advance as any advice is appreciated.

jamesinc

You can run a 14" Davies Craig with a tee in the lower radiator hose for a thermoswitch. In my experience, a shroud is not necessary with this setup, at least for NA applications.

Nissens radiators are I think what most people consider the best aftermarket brand for 240 radiators, and Rock Auto have them for about $160 AUD + shipping.

If you are doing the radiator, treat the engine to a new thermostat too.

ramrod

I do this sort of repair work on a daily basis.

Adding to what James has recommended, there are a few choices of radiator for the 240 and I believe the Nissens plastic radiator to be the highest quality available.

Your radiator failed because it was most likely the original fitment from 1987. It’s a good thing you changed the hoses, I would also change the heater hoses, thermostat, housing for the thermostat if it needs it, coolant tank, coolant tank hose and water pump.

That and a flush out of the system and good coolant added.

The cooling fan, whilst it is does run even when you don’t need it to is solid as a rock reliable, unless it’s too noisy in which case you just replace the clutch hub and fit the original fan blade to it.

If it’s not too noisy it’s still in serviceable condition. Personally I would keep it and not have to worry about adding an aftermarket electric fan, I prefer mechanical rather than electric.

The manual gearbox doesn’t need cooling from the radiator like the automatic does, so you just leave that part of the new radiator blank.