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DeWitt Radiator

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Old 07-01-2022, 02:28 AM
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Vol95
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Default DeWitt Radiator

Hello Everyone

I recently had the water pump, the thermostat (standard), both radiator hoses, and both belts replaced on my 2004 coupe with automatic transmission. It is a daily driver with 140K miles with no issues.

The pump began to leak so I had it replaced as mentioned above. It was a long wait to get it back and after a month did so. A week after, there was a coolant leak on the driver side of the radiator. I plan today to remove the air intake and top shroud and look to see if i can find the leak. I suspect that the driver side radiator piece is cracked. I suspect when the technician removed the old top radiator hose the hard tug cracked it. Again, I will hopefully know tomorrow. It is the original unit so after 18 years, 140K miles, or about 3,500 hours to 4,000 service hours I presume that side plastic part was weak,

Anyway, looking ahead, and to the point of my post here, does anyone have experienced feedback regarding a replacement DeWitt radiator in a C5? Where you happy with it?

Years ago, when I had a C4 I replaced the original radiator with e DeWitt and was most pleased with the result. I am considering doing so again for my C5. Also, based on some initial research, which included a video by that good and wise friend to us all, Froggy, the replacement procedure seems far easier than with my C4.

I thank you for your review of my post. I wish to all a great holiday weekend.
Old 07-01-2022, 08:36 AM
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50thz06
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I bought a Dewitt a few years ago for my 03 Z06. I wasn't having any "bad" overheating problems, but wanted the extra insurance. I also replaced the condenser while I was in there, as I could see debris embedded that I could not clean out. At least make sure you clean your condenser as best you can while you have the radiator out (much easier and more effective). I'm very happy with the Dewitt radiator. Engine temperature is VERY stable. Takes a little longer to warm up in the winter, but I don't see that as a big negative. I am using stock temperature thermostat and engine almost never gets to 200 degrees even in scorching summer weather. Whatever radiator you go with, it is critical to periodically clean the condenser/radiator of trash/debris or you'll get erratic engine temperatures.
Old 07-01-2022, 09:19 AM
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grinder11
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I've had a DeWitts radiator for 17 years, about 70,000 miles. Never any problem. You can find CHEAPER alternatives that may, or may not, be a GOOD alternative. But you won't find anything better than a DeWitts.
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Old 07-01-2022, 01:41 PM
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I must parrot the above. Dewitts is definitely worth every penny.
Old 07-01-2022, 07:11 PM
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gimp
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Super happy with my unit. Got both the radiator and fans. They cool like an iceberg tsunami. I don't know if that's a good analogy, but let's roll with it.

There are plenty of folk who went with a no-name ebay radiator for $180. I think the average for those units to fail and people to come back and complain is less time than I've been a member of this forum. Some get lucky, of course. But honestly, just pay the $$$ and never worry about it again. I think they are having a 4th of July sale, too.
Old 07-01-2022, 08:55 PM
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Originally Posted by gimp
Super happy with my unit. Got both the radiator and fans. They cool like an iceberg tsunami. I don't know if that's a good analogy, but let's roll with it.

There are plenty of folk who went with a no-name ebay radiator for $180. I think the average for those units to fail and people to come back and complain is less time than I've been a member of this forum. Some get lucky, of course. But honestly, just pay the $$$ and never worry about it again. I think they are having a 4th of July sale, too.
OP should get a DeWitts, Ron Francis, Be Cool, etc. Pay the $800, never worry again. I've had my DeWitts for 17 years, and the only time I think about it is once a year to check for accumulated junk in front of the A/C condenser. So I guess I think about that, and not the radiator itself. To have a DeWitts is to never worry about it again.....

Old 07-02-2022, 12:27 AM
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I put a DeWitts radiator with both transmission and engine oil coolers integrated nine years and 18 track days ago. I am glad I did.
Old 07-02-2022, 08:21 AM
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Rx7Rob
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Originally Posted by grinder11
OP should get a DeWitts, Ron Francis
Who the hell is Ron Francis, lol!

I have a Ron Davis. That must be the knock-off brand.
Old 07-02-2022, 08:52 AM
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Originally Posted by Rx7Rob
Who the hell is Ron Francis, lol!

I have a Ron Davis. That must be the knock-off brand.
Sorry. Francis is wiring, iirc. Davis is cooling.
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Old 07-05-2022, 05:10 PM
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Had my Dewitts for 3 years. Best mod I have ever done.
Old 07-05-2022, 05:30 PM
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ECS is less expensive and has received many many positive reviews.

https://speedcooling.com/product/199...inum-radiator/
Old 07-05-2022, 09:27 PM
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^ if you’re going to do a job, so it right. Dewitts is the only name to use. Lifetime warranty.
Old 07-06-2022, 12:05 PM
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Originally Posted by gimp
Super happy with my unit. Got both the radiator and fans. They cool like an iceberg tsunami. I don't know if that's a good analogy, but let's roll with it.

There are plenty of folk who went with a no-name ebay radiator for $180. I think the average for those units to fail and people to come back and complain is less time than I've been a member of this forum. Some get lucky, of course. But honestly, just pay the $$$ and never worry about it again. I think they are having a 4th of July sale, too.
$180 radiators work great......Until they don't, usually when you're 20 miles from the nearest town@1:00AM, and see steam pouring out from the engine bay!!!
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Old 07-06-2022, 12:37 PM
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There surely is a point of ridiculous on the low fringe, but there are reliable radiators for less than $900 as well.

Would I buy $10 eBay brakes? No. On the other hand, I may not need a Wilwood set either.

There are effective and reliable products in between junk and Diamond Jim.
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Old 07-07-2022, 11:03 AM
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Originally Posted by vette4fl
There surely is a point of ridiculous on the low fringe, but there are reliable radiators for less than $900 as well.

Would I buy $10 eBay brakes? No. On the other hand, I may not need a Wilwood set either.

There are effective and reliable products in between junk and Diamond Jim.
VERY good point!!

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