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I just took my stock 1980 528i radiator to my local radiator shop for testing and it looks like it needs rebuilding. The rebuild will cost $350.

I did some searching and reading here and see that many are using the E28 radiator. I don't really like the idea of having plastic hose connections, nor making the needed modifications....unless this is really a better route.

If I look at prices for a new E12 radiator, it looks like I can get an aluminum core E12 Behr OE fit radiator for under $200.

http://www.overnightautoparts.com/store ... t=Radiator

My 3.5 liter (M1.3) conversion is going to look close to stock E12 (except for distributor), so I like the idea of using an E12 radiator.

I am not considering using a radiator from the junk yard. I want a new, or rebuilt unit. I am putting too much work into this car to deal with a marginal radiator.

Thoughts?

You already answered yourself. Get a new E12 radiator.

jeff

I have not seen aluminum radiators for E12s before. It may or may not be accurate. If it is it's "probably" ok, but without seeing it I don't know how many tubes it has, which is critical. And look closely, the only ones I see for under two bills are for E60s. The price for an E12 still isn't bad, just not under $200. In other words you're in uncharted territory and I for one welcome your report.

Since they are cheaper to manufacture, it wouldn't be shocking if they did go plastic/aluminum, but I'm somewhat skeptical there would be enough demand. Then again, they could just use an E28 core and E12 plastic tanks. I think I've even seen brass tanks on an aluminum core, clamped on like the plastic ones.

Odometergears wrote:You already answered yourself. Get a new E12 radiator.

jeff

I suppose you are right...at least based on the information that I currently have. But, I figured that I should run it by the group....should there be more to it.

I went ahead and ordered this one:

Behr Radiator - Aluminum Core Direct OE Replacement
1979-1981 BMW 528i
BEHR RADIATOR -- Quiet, light, efficient, space-saving and reliable; A high quality, direct fit OE replacement radiator; With 12-month or 12,000-mile Behr warranty.
Fits: Standard Transmission, OEM# : 17111150564.
Material: Aluminum Core
Type: Direct Oe Replacement
Free Shipping on Orders Over $50
In Stock for Delivery
Live Help
FITS (Engine/Chassis)
SKU
PRICE
QTY
1979-1981 BMW 528i BEH376753511 $212.81

When I check on www.realoem.com for the part number that they provided, it matches up with the 1980 528i.

I contacted the company, who told me that it is all aluminum and the same as the stock part.

I am still skeptical, but I will report back when I get it.

I have always used a stock E12 radiator. My original was recored after 10 yrs. and lasted until the leaks couldn't be brazed any longer. I never had overheating issues with A/C in the steamy, long, hot Big Easy summer seasons. When it came time for a new one, I found a Behr, made in S. Africa, a direct aftermarket replacement, from RockAuto. They no longer offer one, but here is one.

I won't tell you I paid $99 just a few years ago.

I had the radiator in my M535i rebuilt for $75. I drove it throughout the summer and enjoyed the car. It never got hot.

I don't think I'd ever put an E28 radiator in an E12. Pretty much an irreversible modification.

Well, I received the radiator.

It is not aluminum, contrary to what they advertise.

But, it is a Behr that looks identical to the stock radiator.

Unfortunately, it was damaged during shipping. The inlet and outlet tubes were crushed and are far from round.

They were willing to take it back, but did not have another in stock.

So, we settled for a $60 discount and I will repair it.