Upgraded radiator for 2000 Explorer?

[namuwilliams]

I need to replace my radiator and I figured I'd check for recommendations...is there a best brand/type I should get? Or will most of the radiators out there work fine (ebay, for example). I wouldn't mind spending a little extra for an "upgraded" radiator - something with better build quality or a lifetime guarantee.

2000 Ford Explorer XLT 5.0 V8

Also, is there an important difference between the plastic frame radiators and the aluminum ones? This is the one I was looking at:

http://www.ebay.com/itm/NEW-96-97-9...iter_Display:5.0L&hash=item2a3960a46e&vxp=mtr

Thanks for your suggestions!

 

[ThatExplorerDude]

I know the plastic ones have the perpensity to develop small fissure like cracks in them... but that normally occurs after a few years.

 

[namuwilliams]

Thanks for the reply. So the plastic ones are definitely the lower quality radiators?

 

[ThatExplorerDude]

Thanks for the reply. So the plastic ones are definitely the lower quality radiators?

As far as im to understand yes

 

[namuwilliams]

Great, thanks. Anyone else have any experience with upgrading their radiator?

 

[ThatExplorerDude]

great, thanks. Anyone else have any experience with upgrading their radiator?

bump

 

[SWIGIN]

The radiators with plastic tanks are most likely stock replacements and just as that sounds your came from the factory with plastic tanks.

I don't mind plastic tanks at all and most will last 100,000 miles or more.

 

[J_C]

There is one that looks very similar to what you linked on Rock Auto for $99 + $11 shipping, before the extra 5% off code from this forum. Lifetime warranty for non-commercial use.

https://www.rockauto.com/catalog/moreinfo.php?pk=1376547&cc=1362462&jnid=506&jpid=0

 

[namuwilliams]

I forgot to check the forum, so I missed your replies, and my truck actually died on the freeway - the radiator busted (no blown head gasket, thank goodness), so I just went with the stock replacement my mechanic recommended. I appreciate the input!