1974 280C Radiator Replacements

[beisenho]

I have a very slow leak in my radiator. I havent been able to find it (whether it is at a seam or if it is a pinhole). I was planning on pulling it and having a radiator shop seal it up because of the price of a new one.

Im also considering other alternatives:

- is there a radiator from a different model that may be cheaper that will fit with the same performance (and maybe a modification)

- Im really interested in having an overflow tank on my radiator, same question above applies (can I get a radiator off another model that has the overflow).

Thanks,
Bryan
74 280C / SoCal.

[300SDog]

If hoses line up and fits the mounts - you can adapt *any* radiator you like. Mitsubishi radiator went into my 4spd w123 after hitting a deer. Same size hoses matched up perfectly. Bought it at junkyard that racks old radiators 'library style' on shelves like old tires, picked a winner based on approx allignment of hoses and reasonably fitting the slot.

Automatic transmission 280C requires internal trans cooler though. And that might be the tie-breaker, making trans fluid cooler lines fit. Recore should cost less than $200, probly the path of least resistance.

[cth350]

Measure the space across the radiator fits in and then measure the locations of the inlet and outlet hoses. At the very least, any W114 280 or 280C will do from 1973 to 1975. However, comparing your measurements to a 250, 250C, 280 or 280C from 1970 to 1973 might well turn up the same measurements.

-CTH

[Clarion]

My '73 280C needs a radiator too...I'm in the middle of the Pacific Ocean on Kauai with no junkyard or availability. Can't find one on Internet...Help?...

[Idle]

Could one of you post the measurements of the radiator you currently have installed? This would be very helpful.

Of course one measurement is how thick the radiator is, but also measure the distance from the radiator to the fan blade. When fitting a different radiator you would not want to get one that was thinner, but going a little thicker might not be a bad thing if it would fit. There needs to be more than just a fraction of an inch of room between your fan blade and your radiator so if you crack a motor mount the engine does not shift over and slice out your radiator.

And don't forget Ebay. You can place a 'watch list' on there and when the item you are looking for comes up for sale it will alert you.

[Frank Reiner]

Clarion:

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