So its proving to be a bit harder to find a dodge rad I like than I thought.
I'm compiling notes here:
Rock auto sells a bunch of stock replacement options but all are 2 core (2.2 core thick) with plastic tanks for $150 or less. Are you saying this stock class will work for tow rig status with my engine power level?
Champion makes a 3 core (2.25 core thick) for $250 but its only listed as applicable for the gas truck engines. Good news is its all alum and rated for 850 HP. I know those HP ratings only apply for a certain duty cycle though (read drag racing or street use and not prolonged towing up long hills
)
Champion makes a 4 core BBC (2.8 core thick) for $275 listed for 1000+ HP.
Then there are the 2 core (2.7 core thick) for $800 made by Griffin.
Key learning, its also about core thickness and not just the number of cores.
The positives of running the BBC radiator
- may not have to cut the core support all to bits (only if intercooler needs to come closer to rad).
- stock fit
- as high a HP rating as the thinner, wider Cummins ones.
The negatives of running the BBC radiator
- not as proven in a towing capacity as a cummins one
- ports are 1.5 instead of 1.75/2.00 on a cummins one
- thicker core means less clearance to front of engine
- not cutting core support means I have the thickness of the core support "beams" wasting space between rad and intercooler and making it hard or impossible to fit the grille on the front of the truck. Especially with AC condenser up there. Maybe I can put the condenser after the intercooler....