Radiator: Ron Davis or Auto Rad?

[cdushane]

Who's using what? Is one better than the other? Also, if you have any photos of them installed in your car would be great!

[fletcherscustoms]

Autorad!!! Great product, great folks!! hit me up Chris

[214Chevy]

Don't know which is better because I haven't owned AutoRad. But, I do have a Ron Davis on my Chevelle it is a hell of a radiator. Would definitely recommend them. No pics of it though, sorry. Ron Davis is very expensive, but well worth it to me.:thumbsup:

[deuce_454]

Don't know which is better because I haven't owned AutoRad. But, I do have a Ron Davis on my Chevelle it is a hell of a radiator. Would definitely recommend them. No pics of it though, sorry. Ron Davis is very expensive, but well worth it to me.:thumbsup:

x2.. i can vouch for ron davis and howe... the b cool stuff ive had wasnt really cool...

[1984 camaro]

Ron Davis only since I have a couple and they work fine

[BBC69Camaro]

x4 on Ron Davis, its a work of art.

[ProdigyCustoms]

Throw something else in the competition.

As good or better then the others, less money.

Here is a link to the sale

http://www.lateral-g.net/forums/showthread.php4?t=23900&highlight=cool

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u212/ProdigyCustoms/67-69camaroLS1FS.jpg

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u212/ProdigyCustoms/67-69CamaroLS1-radiator.jpg

$900 Cool Package Includes: Billet Radiator Cap, Dual fan relay harness, 195 / 165, On / Off temp control switch and free shipping

[COYBILT]

your not going to beat Ron Davis. Their product is Hands down one of the top choices among race builders across the nation. Robby Gordon ring a bell?

I have many years of experience with there product I am here to say I haven't seen one fail yet. Talk to Dennis Bringer over at Ron Davis or You can give me a call and I can set You up with a radiator. I am not trying to sell you on a inferior product by any means or let alone trying to sell you on a product. PM me and let me know. As the old saying goes "you get what you pay for".

[Steve1968LS2]

In terms of radiator Ron Davis does some cool stuff.. BUT.. I really like the radiator/core support combo of the Autorad.

Mainly how it can be so much larger.

If I was just buying the radiator and cost wasn't an object I would get the Ron Davis.. if I wanted the system I would get the Autorad.

Also, if I was doing an intercooler or something special I think Ron is better are custom stuff like that.

Both will surely keep you engine cool :)

[COYBILT]

In terms of radiator Ron Davis does some cool stuff.. BUT.. I really like the radiator/core support combo of the Autorad.

Mainly how it can be so much larger.

If I was just buying the radiator and cost wasn't an object I would get the Ron Davis.. if I wanted the system I would get the Autorad.

Also, if I was doing an intercooler or something special I think Ron is better are custom stuff like that.

Both will surely keep you engine cool :)


Agreed, but If you have a engine (Pontiac's) that likes to get hot, I would trust Rons stuff. They build radiators for BAJA trucks, I would think that would qualify them alone.

[GregWeld]

I have TWO bad BeCool radiators - both leaked at the core/tank - Must be the PLASTIC sealant they use...

I just ordered and received a Ron Davis... It is a work of art... and his supports CRADLE the radiator so stressing it isn't a factor...

A buddy has the AUTORAD and core support in his 56 -- it belongs in a museum somewhere -- it's the most gorgeous radiator I've ever seen.

I'm now torn between ordering an AutoRad - or sticking with my Ron Davis... probably can't go wrong either way.

[Steve1968LS2]

Agreed, but If you have a engine (Pontiac's) that likes to get hot, I would trust Rons stuff. They build radiators for BAJA trucks, I would think that would qualify them alone.

To be honest I don't think Ron's radiator cools any better than any other QUALITY radiator of similar size.. Where the RD unit excells is in how it's a work of art. But that doesn't make it necessarily cool any better.

The downside to the RD unit is that it's limited by the opening in the factory core support. The upside to the Autorad is that the overall surface area of the radiator is much larger, so one could argue that it most likely cools even better.. Not due to being higher quality, but due to the simple fact that it's larger.

With the RD you're paying for the attention to detail and craftsmanship. With the Autorad you're paying for the extra stuff (core support, etc) to make the system work. It just depends what you want and I doubt your going to have cooling problems either way.

[Gordz32]

My vote is for Ron Davis, Look awsome and cools great, Had an issue with a fin leaking and they replaced it for free. Great Product, Great Company!

[GregWeld]

To be honest I don't think Ron's radiator cools any better than any other QUALITY radiator of similar size.. Where the RD unit excells is in how it's a work of art. But that doesn't make it necessarily cool any better.

The downside to the RD unit is that it's limited by the opening in the factory core support. The upside to the Autorad is that the overall surface area of the radiator is much larger, so one could argue that it most likely cools even better.. Not due to being higher quality, but due to the simple fact that it's larger.

With the RD you're paying for the attention to detail and craftsmanship. With the Autorad you're paying for the extra stuff (core support, etc) to make the system work. It just depends what you want and I doubt your going to have cooling problems either way.

WHAT HE SAID..... just buy the one you want. You're a winner with either one of them. :woot:

[ProdigyCustoms]

We have used quite a few Ron Davis, and they are excellent. We had a chance to compare Ron Davis side by side with our set up when a certain famous car was being built in out shop using Ron Davis. Our unit has a nicer finish! Prettier finish on the aluminum, Identical parts list, 3/4 the cost.

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u212/ProdigyCustoms/DSC04306.jpg

We have a full support also built by PRC for use that uses a wider core and 16" fans!

http://i169.photobucket.com/albums/u212/ProdigyCustoms/PARTS/67-69-CamaroCoreFront.jpg

[JamesJ]

Either one will cool your car fine. Nothing more needs to be said that Steve did not say, except dont use brass drain plugs like what are used in the two pictures above......

[Roadster Shop]

I'ld strongly reccomend Auto Rad. We use them in every car that we build. If they are not available for a certain model, or we need something custom, Jim always takes care of us and builds an outstanding radiator. You will not find a better built unit. The craftsmanship and attention to detail is second to none. As far as cooling goes... we put one in a '57 Chevy that was built for a customer in Scottsdale, AZ. We delivered the car to him in August and had to take the owner for the test rides on a lovely 114 degree day. It was definitely not the ideal day to take a 572 BBC out for the first drive with a customer. I was sweating when we got stuck in rush hour traffic for 30 minutes, expecting hte thing to start boiling. The car never got over 200 degrees and we have still never had a complaint that the car has ever gotten close to over heating. We have also used Auto Rad Radiators in our Chevelle's that have endured some serious track time as well as the C1RS Vette.

[cdushane]

Everyone, Thanks so much for all your input and advice. I've decided to go with the radiator from Frank at Prodigy.


Frank, thanks again and I look forward to seeing the "1st" one done like we discussed. :unibrow:

[kfrommer]

I have a 66 Nova Pro Tour car and I wanted something you don't see every day. When I saw the ad from Autorad in Super Chevy I knew right a way I had to have this unit. The quality is absolutely excellent and their service was second to none. I have a Chassisworks front clip and a 427 big block with a March Revolver serpentine system and the space is very tight. Jim at Autorad made everything to fit. The craftsmanship on the whole set-up, from the welds to the catch and the design, is so beautiful that I don't want to put the fenders and grill back on. I will have about $75,000 into the car before paint and interior and the polished aluminum core support and radiator set up will help keep it a notch above others at shows in the north east. I highly recommend this company.

[Vegas69]

Everyone, Thanks so much for all your input and advice. I've decided to go with the radiator from Frank at Prodigy.


Frank, thanks again and I look forward to seeing the "1st" one done like we discussed. :unibrow:
If I had a nickel for everytime Serafine used that sales pitch on me. :rofl: :D

[cdushane]

I was wondering how long it would take you to chime in :rolleyes: Guess you were waiting for the right post so you could throw in a smart a$$ comment ;)

If I had a nickel for everytime Serafine used that sales pitch on me. :rofl: :D

[Vegas69]

I spent a bunch of time talking to companies about radiators. Mainly Ron Davis, CSR, and Fluidyne. They all recommended the heat exchanger. Then I figured out Frank @ Prodigy Customs had the perfect package for me. I was able to get the dual pass, 12 plate/12AN heat exchanger, dual 12's, in a pretty package. Oh yeah, the price is way less than Ron Davis. I just got it today. Look awesome, I'll be sure to let you guys know how it works soon. First impression if very favorable.
http://i200.photobucket.com/albums/aa251/Payback1969/Radiator012.jpg
http://i200.photobucket.com/albums/aa251/Payback1969/Radiator013.jpg

I really like the autorad setup. It would cause me some packaging issues with puke tanks, catch cans, power steering tanks. If I was in the fabrication stage then that would of been a serious consideration.

[GregWeld]

Todd --

Now all you need is the SPAL PWM fan controller.... it kicks on fan #1 at half speed -- and ramps up the speed as temps climb - then when #1 is full and temps keep going - Fan #2 comes on full blast... Hook your A/C trinary into it and it waits until head pressure is reached and kicks BOTH fans on full - and continues to run them for 30 seconds AFTER you kill the A/C to cools things down...

I just bought another one off AMAZON for $124

With this controller you only need ONE fan relay - for fan #2

Small package easilly hidden and all weatherpack connectors...

[Vegas69]

It's already wired with two relays and the trinary circuit is already soldered in. I'll just stick with it.

[colin204]

Anybody know the price on the autorad with core support?

[Steve1968LS2]

Anybody know the price on the autorad with core support?

Sorta depends on the options.. do you need a condensor?

I "think" the core support and the radiator is $1300.. but call them to make sure.

One side benefit is that the system gives you more area in front of the engine. This is because thier core support is straight across rather than curved. Makes it easier to package in an air intake system on an LS type engine. I gained around two+ inches.

[BBC71Nova]

Awesome looking piece Frank!

Todd, what are the -12 in/outlets for? Trans cooler err you have a manual so...oil cooler? PS cooler?

John

[ProdigyCustoms]

Frank, thanks again and I look forward to seeing the "1st" one done like we discussed. :unibrow:

You will be the first, but not the last!

[camcojb]

I spent a bunch of time talking to companies about radiators. Mainly Ron Davis, CSR, and Fluidyne. They all recommended the heat exchanger. Then I figured out Frank @ Prodigy Customs had the perfect package for me. I was able to get the dual pass, 12 plate/12AN heat exchanger, dual 12's, in a pretty package. Oh yeah, the price is way less than Ron Davis. I just got it today. Look awesome, I'll be sure to let you guys know how it works soon. First impression if very favorable.
http://i200.photobucket.com/albums/aa251/Payback1969/Radiator012.jpg
http://i200.photobucket.com/albums/aa251/Payback1969/Radiator013.jpg

I really like the autorad setup. It would cause me some packaging issues with puke tanks, catch cans, power steering tanks. If I was in the fabrication stage then that would of been a serious consideration.

I really like that Todd. I'm starting to look for ideas for my second gen track car. I need to get ahold of Frank................ :thumbsup:

Jody

[camaro41701]

Just ordered one from Frank today.Trying to cool a 502.Can't wait to try it out.
It is worth calling and ordering one just to talk to Frank.He seems like he would be a riot.I like buying parts from someone who knows what you need instead of just wanting part numbers.

[Vegas69]

It's an engine oil cooler. I'll plumb it from the oil pump to the cooler than through the oil filter and through the engine. I'll have a seperate port for the accumulator. The coolant t stat will control the oil temperature. While this may be marginal for all out road racing, I don't plan to run anything but 15-30 minute heats with this car. I'll have 13qts of oil, dual pass, and aluminum block. If I get that damn serious about road racing, I need to build a new car. This should do just fine for what I intend with the space I have.

[cdushane]

I don't doubt that a bit!

You will be the first, but not the last!

[AutoRad]

We want to re-emphisize Steve's comment to the major advantage over a stock core support. Do to the design of our set-up, you can gain 1-1/2"-2" of room. This is a huge help with "front runner" type drive systems.

Price is $1200.00 for the rad/core support & overflow bottle

Options:
Dual Fans & Shroud - $400.00
3 pc Filler - $200.00
AC Condenser - $200.00
Trans Cooler - $75.00
Polishing - $500.00


AutoRad
www.autoradradiators.com
770-983-1345
[email protected]

[no bags]

..............Ron Davis on my 69 Camaro. I'm sure the units mentioned here can do a outstanding job on keeping engines and transmissions cool, as well as giving the drivers peace of mind . I did some research on all the radiators that have been mentioned here also. I have no regrets whatsoever in the decision to go with Ron Davis. It has kept my modified 1st gen small block at a consistant 180 degrres no matter the conditions. From downtown Chicago 100 degree day stop and go traffic or prolonged highway cruising speeds. I am sometimes concerned that my guage may be faulty for not moving from the 180 degree position!!!!!!!!!!The workmanship is like a work of art, outstanding materials and components also. No I did not get paid for this endorsment!

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k32/stepupkr8/231.jpg

[tazzz2_ca]

I've been torn on this exact issue for the WarPath build and will need to make the decision pretty soon so thanks for the info gang,,,, it sure is nice to hear/read from others and their experiences and opinions with the various manufactures.... Frankly I've been leaning in the "AutoRad" camp so far...

[killer67]

AutoRad takes my vote. Fit and finish is second to none. Great family run business.

[GregWeld]

I've owned one of everything --- my NEW AUTORAD will be here next week...

There is no better quality that I've seen.

:woot:

[Vegas69]

Anyone that was at El Toro a couple weekends ago can attest to the beating I put on my setup. It worked great in my high strung car with a stock core support.

[Steve1968LS2]

I've owned one of everything --- my NEW AUTORAD will be here next week...

There is no better quality that I've seen.

:woot:

I had Fast Eddies move my radiator cap to the other side of my Autorad.. he was pretty impressed with the overall quality and noted that the tanks are welded on the inside as well.

[Steve1968LS2]

Anyone that was at El Toro a couple weekends ago can attest to the beating I put on my setup. It worked great in my high strung car with a stock core support.

Many cars run just fine with the stock core support.. but it constrains the radiator to a given size. I like the larger opening of my Autorad unit since it let me run a huge oil cooler without blocking most of the radiator.

[Steve1968LS2]

We want to re-emphisize Steve's comment to the major advantage over a stock core support. Do to the design of our set-up, you can gain 1-1/2"-2" of room. This is a huge help with "front runner" type drive systems.

AutoRad
www.autoradradiators.com
770-983-1345
[email protected]

Yea, that was a pleasent surprise when I gained the extra clearance between the radiator and the drive system. Really helps when time to run an air intake on an LS engine.

[Vegas69]

Many cars run just fine with the stock core support.. but it constrains the radiator to a given size. I like the larger opening of my Autorad unit since it let me run a huge oil cooler without blocking most of the radiator.

I'm just trying to play devils advocate here. I know I"m guilty of chasing the biggest and best. I just don't want the little guys to think it's necessary. Nice, but not necessary.

[Steve1968LS2]

I'm just trying to play devils advocate here. I know I"m guilty of chasing the biggest and best. I just don't want the little guys to think it's necessary. Nice, but not necessary.

Yea, I know :)

Not necessary, but nice, especially if you are really beating your car for extended periods.

Although, for some the extra room in front of the engine is necessary. lol

[Vegas69]

That would be nice.....:unibrow: I agree, the dual driver cars bring new variables into the equation. 15-20 minutes vs. 35-40 minutes on a road course is a huuuuuuuge difference. Brakes, misc. coolers....blah blah blah