Alloy rad vs normal copper/brass core

[Noisy]

I have a issue with the radiator as its leaking from where the end cap joins the core, I mentioned the fact its got a alloy core at the moment and the guy said he would rather fit a brass/copper core as they dissipate the heat much better, also said alloy radiators are are efficient that's why the core needs to be bigger.

Now I was considering getting a new alloy rad if this one can't be repaired but now thinking it might not be a great idea?

[Basil Brush]

Alloy rads are more efficient size for size.

I had to replace my original all-alloy rad last year. Due to availability I ended up buying a copper and brass replacement. It's a bit heavier than the alloy one but I haven't had any cooling issues, even in 40+ degree temps last summer in France/Spain. The main benefit is that it can be more easily repaired and is less fragile. My original one kept cracking around the welding on the mounting points and ultimately failed because it had been damaged when being re-fitted following some repair work, not by me.

[JR]

Basil Brush said:

Alloy rads are more efficient size for size.

Copper dissipates heat better so two rads identical in everything except their material would see the copper one cool better and the alloy one weigh less. The trick is to increase the size of the alloy rad to give greater cooling that the copper one without making the weight increase such that it weighs more, not forgetting the weight of the water.

[Noisy]

That's what the guy at the radiator shop said, the alloy is lighter, but you need a much thicker core to be as efficient as a brass/copper rad, so more water in it which weighs extra anyway, because he knew TVR's have some cooling issues at times recommended a brass/copper core to make sure it stays cool, also said they can be repaired easier where alloy is much more tricky, did say alloy looks nicer though.

Just I have the chance of an alloy rad at a good price, but now thinking it might not be the best idea.

[Basil Brush]

JR said:

Basil Brush said:

Alloy rads are more efficient size for size.

Copper dissipates heat better so two rads identical in everything except their material would see the copper one cool better and the alloy one weigh less. The trick is to increase the size of the alloy rad to give greater cooling that the copper one without making the weight increase such that it weighs more, not forgetting the weight of the water.

I stand corrected - thought alloy was more efficient. Weight for weight then.

[so called]

Thread last year was very pro alloy rads. Thats why I bought one (and the fact that my other one was leaking).
Went to Spain last year with the leaky one and will be in Spain again in two weeks time to test the new one.
Anyway the reduced weight has made my car sooooo much faster...........or was that the decat .....or the new chip ????