Radiator Failed — What Should You Buy Instead?

Correct and timely radiator replacement means forgetting about the inconvenience for several decades. How to make an optimum choice without being confused by a wide range of products? And should you pay extra for an OEM radiator for your vehicle?

The vehicle cooling system prevents engine overheating, and its main component is the radiator.  The radiator properties are directly linked to its material and manufacturing technology. For example, STRON (http://www.stron-parts.ru/) manufactures radiators based on the technology used for OEM radiators — Nocolok. Automotive radiators manufactured based on this technology are distinguished by a long service life, resistance to vibration and overheating, and better heat transfer compared to radiators based on the Sofico technology. The entire structure is welded using argon, which increases radiator strength, improves heat transfer, prevents micro-fractures and deformations.

As for the selection of material — copper and aluminum radiators are the most common today. Copper is heavier than aluminum, so copper radiators have thin and small tubes. It should be kept in mind that narrow tubes are more easily clogged, which reduces service life. Copper tubes for circulating coolant get easily damaged by internal heating. Aluminum tubes are more resistant, and aluminum does not crumble, bend, or fracture when heated to high temperatures. Copper radiators are also more prone to corrosion. Thus, only special-grade cast aluminum with high hermetic and corrosion resistance and a special anti-oxidation coating is used to produce STRON radiator cores.

STRON can serve as an example that an expensive OEM part is not always better than a more affordable one of high quality. You don't have to pay extra for the brand and can purchase something comparable or even identical in quality, but significantly cheaper.