Radiator replacement/repair

[Theotherotter]

Last week when I was jacking my car up to replace the brake fluid, I noticed a little bit of coolant sitting on the bottom of the radiator support from a small leak in the bottom of the radiator. Explains why I had to add a bit of coolant when I noticed the reservoir was low.

The radiator is original and on principle I would rather repair it than replace it. I’m asking around for radiator repair shops in Chicago (I live in the city) that could do it.

But if I have to replace it, what are my easily-available best options? I am aware that an E28 radiator can be fitted with a bit of bracket trimming. I don’t know what other options are out there. If I have to put something in, I want it to be drop-in, or as drop-in as possible.

[PatinaBeforePolish]

As long as the tanks are solid, I’d have it re-cored to prevent future pinhole leaks.

[Mike W.]

I've seen very good results from recores, but radiator shops are nearly gone these days. I don't know if copper/brass are still available but aluminum ones are out there at moderate prices. Not many reviews that I've heard of and most or all of them only seem to have one temp switch bung. No biggie, kludges are easy, but just something of note.

[PatinaBeforePolish]

Mike- Bill Arnold had a shop do mine but that was 10 years ago. Good point on the copper/brass, I imagine it’s a bit pricey these days.

[Theotherotter]

I imagine a leak can be brazed if it’s in an accessible spot, no?