280Z radiator, fan and clutch

[guy_geo]

Ok, will that fit custom on my Z?

I have a used deal with a used 280Z rad, fan and clutch for 30$us...

Cheaper than doing the total restoration.

What about the water pump now???

is it a good move?

[Daniel]

I would still have the radiator checked out by shop.You would hate doing the job only to develop a problem such as a leak or the addition of rust/sediment from the used rad.Unless your fan clutch is bad I wouldn't replace it.Who knows yours may be the better part.The water pump usually leaks out of the "weep"hole in the unit as a sign that repair is needed.No leak,no problem.I think it will fit but yours must be removed anyway,right?Just put them side by side and compare.Only after having the radiator shop inspection would I install it.Myself,I stay away from used parts if I can.When you consider the last new unit lasted 30+ years thats not bad.Do it correct the first time and move on to something else.Used parts can trick you into thinking you are saving money,until you are installing your second or third used or you are on the side of the road because it was a "good deal"!The plastic fan has been baking in radiator heat for years.You know how dry plastic cracks and shatters.Guess what I would do.There

's a pattern developing here!! Have fun!! Daniel

[guy_geo]

Good advice.

God, I love this board.

:tapemouth

[Daniel]

I have a friend that says the only thing he wants thats used is money. Daniel

[2ManyZs]

A 280 radiator will work in a 240 without any problems, but, it is a little larger. The bottom tank will hang below the radiator support , although if I remember right it bolts right in. I believe the core is a little taller than the 240 core. If I remember right it hangs about 2 inches lower( I did this to my first car, almost 20 years ago) so my memory might be a little off.

But I do agree with Daniel, a little more money spent now will probably save you twice as much later. MSA sells a three row radiator or a four row core. The four row is expensive, but the three row core would probably be all you need on the street if your fan, water pump, and all the rest of the cooling system are in good shape. One thing that is often overlooked is the fan shroud, if you don't have one you should get one. It will increase the fans efficiency ten-fold to draw air through the radiator.

[guy_geo]

Yep, the fan shroud is still there!

[Daniel]

Good morning Guy, may I suggest you look at the Z garage, link #4 on this homepage.Then look under rebuild and scroll down to cooling.I believe you'll find this of interest. Daniel

[2ManyZs]

I'd like to add one more thing about Bryans reference to a Camaro radiator. I think that it is possible to use an aftermarket Chevy style radiator since the Chevys have the inlet and outlet on the correct sides. All you would need to do is measure the size of the core you need and perhaps tinker a little with the mounting points a little. You might need some different hoses to hook them up but you should be able to find the right hoses at most auto parts stores. I had always planned on using an aluminum radiator in my IT car but just never got around to it. The Chevy style is the only one that has the inlet/outlet on the correct sides if I'm not mistaken. Most radiators for a Chevy will be cheaper than one built specifically for a Z. In fact I think you can get an aluminum one for a Chevy for about the same price as one of MSA's Z-car radiators. Just a thought.

[guy_geo]

OK, Daniel, I got the point, I'll have it fixed instead,!!!:tapemouth