Front radiator dimension threshold

[Frank818]

Can any car's front rad be fitted or it requires to have specific overall size and bolt/bracket locations in order to fit the frame?

For example if I consider using a different rad with inlet/outlet located elsewhere, with overall size and core size different than the one on any 02-07 donor, would that fit easily or it would require re-bracketing or re-doing holes or not fitting at all in the space allocated for the rad?

As another example, what if using a rad from a 08+ WRX, Toyota, VW, Audi, etc., there must be some limits somewhere, right?


As a reference, AFAIK these are the OEM dimensions of a 02-07 WRX:

- Overall Size: 28"x17.25"x2.5"
- Core Size: 27"x13.5"x2"
- 1.49" Inlet & Outlet

[Bob_n_Cincy]

Can any car's front rad be fitted or it requires to have specific overall size and bolt/bracket locations in order to fit the frame?

For example if I consider using a different rad with inlet/outlet located elsewhere, with overall size and core size different than the one on any 02-07 donor, would that fit easily or it would require re-bracketing or re-doing holes or not fitting at all in the space allocated for the rad?

As another example, what if using a rad from a 08+ WRX, Toyota, VW, Audi, etc., there must be some limits somewhere, right?


As a reference, AFAIK these are the OEM dimensions of a 02-07 WRX:

- Overall Size: 28"x17.25"x2.5"
- Core Size: 27"x13.5"x2"
- 1.49" Inlet & Outlet

I'm sure you could make any equivalent size radiator fit with bracket changes. but why would you. Rockauto has 5 different brands of new radiators for $72 to $117.
Bob

[Santiago]

I'm sure you could make any equivalent size radiator fit with bracket changes. but why would you.
Bob

I know why... =)

Outlet location. That top-center outlet may get in the way of...plans...ah-yes...plans... =)
Ok, well at least that was my concern with the same question. I too may be shopping for a differently configured radiator, not for the cost but for a different plumbing solution.

Best,
-j

[rori]

I believe Forester's of the same model years use the same sized radiator, but the inlet is on the passenger side instead of centered. I've been thinking about picking one up to test fit for a cleaner install.

[michael everson]

I bought a replacement aluminum radiator on Ebay for around 100 bucks. It was for a 92-2001 Impreza. It has the upper outlet on the top right corner. Otherwise it appears identical to the 2002 unit. Perfect fit for me.

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&vxp=mtr&item=190914215919#ht_3845wt_1024
Mike

[Frank818]

Outlet location. That top-center outlet may get in the way of...plans...ah-yes...plans... =)

In the end yes. Really on top on the one I have in my garage. That is different from size, though, but must be taken into account too.

In fact the question was also general, cuz my need is not a different radiator than 02-07 WRX, but a way to cool down engine coolant. That need is answered by a radiator and then comes the specs for size and fitments. Am I forced to used a 02-07 rad or do I have a certain play around. That was the question, but obviously this is part of my analysis for my potential and crazy idea of a non-subaru engine/tranny donor, though I am sure the general question I asked may be beneficial to others.

[D Clary]

I had thought of an aftermarket radiator as well. Afco makes a large variety of aluminum radiators. They would have to be re-mounted but that is not a complicated piece of fabrication.