I just bought a radiator (OEM) about a year and a half ago. It already has a crack along the top behind the cap. This is the exact same spot the last one cracked. (it was the original radiator) I'm going to have to get another one soon, so are there any advantages to an aluminum radiator? Are they stronger, do they cool more effectively? I can't understand why something that has to withstand so much pressure would be made out of plastic anyway. Suggestions, opinions please. Thanks in advance.

 

Lighter and they dissipate heat better.

 

actually copper / brass dissipates heat better then aluminum. the main advantage is weight

 

This may seem like a stupid question.... Are aluminum radiators stronger than the plastic ones? More durable? I think I've had to replace this most recent one too soon (1 1/2 yr) and was looking to aluminum mainly expecting them to last longer. If any other benefits come.... then good.

 

do they really have plastic? aluminum will do anything better then plastic..

 

stock ones are like 1 inch thick and you can get the 3 inch ones which are gonna keep you so much cooler, i would imagine 2/3rds longer

 

plus they look better aluminum than black plastic, really stand out

 

how cool do you want it? if it doesnt warm up all the way, then its not worth it.