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$150 4 row radiator @ PepBoys

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Old Jan 6, 2017 | 10:42 AM
  #41  
RetroRanger's Avatar
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Originally Posted by jpc647
If that's the case, I wonder if the 2 row is designed differently to provide the same level of cooling that the 4 row copper will provide.

Because that, for $140 would be awesome. But it looks like 30% off and free shipping isn't available anymore. PEP30 doesn't work. Neither does POSTGREEN.

I got in yesterday for $148 shipped to my house using pep30 even tho a new 15% off code was listed instead of pep30. I initially looked at Nashua pep boys and the www showed no availible shipping, but Danvers had it in stock w free ship and 30% off, I'll report back when it arrives.
Old Jan 6, 2017 | 12:14 PM
  #42  
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Originally Posted by oddball
............. except Spectra's own catalog specifically states that CU165 is a two row aluminum.
I'm still thinking they re-used the part number for a different design, with the same intended applications. So what's in the box will be a grab-bag until all the copper ones are gone.
Indeed it does, with pictures, too:

http://ecat.spectrapremium.com/prod/cu165

SO either they changed the design but kept the part number, or they put the wrong labels on the right boxes.

Pretty weird, though, all the way around. I am very curious what others find inside the box.

- Eric
Old Jan 11, 2017 | 05:07 AM
  #43  
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Originally Posted by RetroRanger
I got in yesterday for $148 shipped to my house using pep30 even tho a new 15% off code was listed instead of pep30. I initially looked at Nashua pep boys and the www showed no availible shipping, but Danvers had it in stock w free ship and 30% off, I'll report back when it arrives.

Retro,

What'd you get in your box?
Old Jan 11, 2017 | 04:10 PM
  #44  
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Never seen a radiator with a heater hose tap in it, is it non A/C cars?
Old Jan 11, 2017 | 04:26 PM
  #45  
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Originally Posted by jpc647
Retro,

What'd you get in your box?

2 row aluminum

oh well nothing ventured nothing lost (in this case)
Old Jan 11, 2017 | 04:48 PM
  #46  
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Originally Posted by classicmuscle.442
Never seen a radiator with a heater hose tap in it, is it non A/C cars?
That heater hose tap is for use in a Chevy application. It's a kinda universal fit radiator, as noted by the lower hose nipple that accommodates different size hoses.
Old Jan 11, 2017 | 06:55 PM
  #47  
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Originally Posted by RetroRanger
2 row aluminum

oh well nothing ventured nothing lost (in this case)

Well crap.

I ordered one thinking about it. What am I going to do with a 2 core aluminum radiator? ;/
Old Jan 11, 2017 | 07:04 PM
  #48  
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lol maybe youll get lucky ! did you order from the dedham store ? i wrote danvers but should have wrote dedham ....anyways i just filled out the return form looks like $9 to return ! so not a big hit but i do wish it had been the 4 core that woulda saved me from buying the champion 4 core despite cd rods thread....i need the extra cooling capacity for this summer i did OK last year avoiding driving in 90° or hotter weather and not staying on the highway for more than 15minutes or so i do need to upgrade.
Old Jan 11, 2017 | 07:13 PM
  #49  
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Remember that the 2-row aluminum radiator is more efficient, and is supposed to cool as well as a 4-row copper/brass radiator.

I believe Eric (OldCutlass) is using one successfully with his big block in Texas.

- Eric
Old Jan 11, 2017 | 08:38 PM
  #50  
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lol to late i already pulled the return to sender lever
Old Jan 12, 2017 | 05:17 AM
  #51  
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Originally Posted by MDchanic
Remember that the 2-row aluminum radiator is more efficient, and is supposed to cool as well as a 4-row copper/brass radiator.

I believe Eric (OldCutlass) is using one successfully with his big block in Texas.

- Eric

My issue is with the plastic tanks. I've seen a lot of them(on other cars) crack and split. I just don't like the idea of plastic tanks.


Originally Posted by RetroRanger
lol maybe youll get lucky ! did you order from the dedham store ? i wrote danvers but should have wrote dedham ....anyways i just filled out the return form looks like $9 to return ! so not a big hit but i do wish it had been the 4 core that woulda saved me from buying the champion 4 core despite cd rods thread....i need the extra cooling capacity for this summer i did OK last year avoiding driving in 90° or hotter weather and not staying on the highway for more than 15minutes or so i do need to upgrade.

I didn't select a store, I don't think. Going back into my order details, it doesn't show a store listed anywhere. Well, it'll be here today, so we'll see. I remember seeing the dedham store, and I don't remember seeing Danvers, but who knows.

*Update, if I got back into my cart and select store pickup, it defaults to Dedham, but Dedham isn't listed anywhere on my order. I'm not sure it would matter for "home store" if it's an online order?

Last edited by jpc647; Jan 12, 2017 at 05:21 AM.
Old Jan 12, 2017 | 06:43 AM
  #52  
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Yes I run a similar radiator on my car. The only issues I have are with extended idling in 100*+ temps. Driving at speed no issues at all. My engine is a 468BBC probably 500+hp and 10.25 compression. I run a flex fan with no shroud. The radiator has been in the car for over 7 years with the only issue being the drain valve stripped and was an easy repair by installing a new one.
Old Jan 12, 2017 | 07:01 AM
  #53  
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Originally Posted by oldcutlass
The only issues I have are with extended idling in 100°+ temps...
I run a flex fan with no shroud.
Hmmmm...

- Eric
Old Jan 12, 2017 | 07:08 AM
  #54  
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With these Aluminum radiators, do we have to switch coolant types? Or do we continue running Green Prestone?

-Is that a dumb question?
Old Jan 12, 2017 | 07:13 AM
  #55  
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You should run a coolant specified for newer cars with aluminum radiators, rather than for older cars.

- Eric
Old Jan 12, 2017 | 08:18 AM
  #56  
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I've been running regular ol prestone since 2009, no issues.
Old Jan 12, 2017 | 08:32 AM
  #57  
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Originally Posted by oldcutlass
I've been running regular ol prestone since 2009, no issues.
If you look at the label, it probably says somewhere "Approved for all cars, including those with aluminum radiators" or some such.

I was just in the store yesterday - they had "Universal" (approved for all and compatible with all coolants), "Older Cars Only" (no aluminum), Dex-Cool, and two types of specials for certain Japanese cars.

Odds are the "regular" Prestone is the "universal" one.

- Eric
Old Jan 12, 2017 | 09:06 AM
  #58  
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Thank you oddball. Just ordered 2 could only get 15% off. Not sure if it's due to the area I live or the other promo's expired. Tried the 25 & 30% told me offer was not valid. Had it delivered to the store about a mile from me this way if they are not the right ones I'll leave them there.
Old Jan 12, 2017 | 11:23 AM
  #59  
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Well mine showed up today and it's the aluminum version.

A couple of the fins in about a 1 inch section are bent over, I don't think it's a problem, but I may send it back anyway.
Old Jan 12, 2017 | 12:44 PM
  #60  
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that sucks oh well ...i just dropped mine off at FEDEX
Old Jan 12, 2017 | 02:49 PM
  #61  
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Well that sucks guys. I hope someone was able to pull off a a copper unit.
Even though they are Chinesium and about 10 lbs. lighter than an original
one, my bet paid off I hope. It will be Spring or after before I do an install.
Old Jan 13, 2017 | 06:49 PM
  #62  
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Originally Posted by oddball
That's what I'm saying is weird.

The Spectra catalog calls the CU165 a two row aluminum - somewhat narrow at 1.75". If you search around the internet some sites will show pictures of a two row aluminum, some will show a copper/brass.

The Spectra CU-165 box I opened at Pep Boys had a 4 row copper/brass radiator in it, with a sticker that says CU-165.

Maybe they switched designs but kept the same part number? Dumb, but possible, if they were meant for the same applications.

Anyway, YMMV. $150 for a four row copper is pretty good (I think scrap value is >$50!). I actually wanted the aluminum version. $150 for a two row stock-fit aluminum, even if they are 3/4" tubes, is pretty good too.

I've used the CU-161 - stock fit 1 row 1" aluminum - in year prior. That one works really well for moderate output builds, but probably marginal for 455's or anything really exciting.

You got lucky. I'm sure someone on here would love that 4 row(like me). I ended up with a 2 row aluminum. :/
Old Jan 16, 2017 | 06:26 PM
  #63  
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Got my 2 today. Both 2 row. Guess they ran out and switched to aluminum. Was worth a shot.
Old Jan 18, 2017 | 07:42 PM
  #64  
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Originally Posted by zeeke
Got my 2 today. Both 2 row. Guess they ran out and switched to aluminum. Was worth a shot.
Indeed it was.

Luckily mine got damaged, so my return shipping was free.
Old Jan 24, 2017 | 02:14 PM
  #65  
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Originally Posted by RetroRanger
that sucks oh well ...i just dropped mine off at FEDEX

Just curious, did you get a refund yet? I'm still waiting....
Old Jan 24, 2017 | 04:18 PM
  #66  
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Bought mine a year ago from Autozone, was a copper 4 row. I remember there being conflicting specs on it depending on what site I was on, but took a chance.
Old Jan 24, 2017 | 04:33 PM
  #67  
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IDK for sure the purchase was on my latest statement the refund was not...i dont typically check online so we'll have to wait until next months statement
Old Feb 23, 2017 | 12:36 PM
  #68  
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Originally Posted by RetroRanger
that sucks oh well ...i just dropped mine off at FEDEX
Originally Posted by jpc647
Just curious, did you get a refund yet? I'm still waiting....
got my next statement no refund for reference purchsed online 1-6-17 returned using pepboys RMA and recd by pepboys 1-13-17.

called them today they asked for fedex trck # acknowledged it had been recd on 1-13 and stated you should receive a refund in 6-10 days....apparently if i hadnt called they werent going to refund my money ?

curious system they have
Old Feb 25, 2017 | 08:50 AM
  #69  
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Originally Posted by RetroRanger
got my next statement no refund for reference purchsed online 1-6-17 returned using pepboys RMA and recd by pepboys 1-13-17.

called them today they asked for fedex trck # acknowledged it had been recd on 1-13 and stated you should receive a refund in 6-10 days....apparently if i hadnt called they werent going to refund my money ?

curious system they have
Agreed! They are awful. I won't be buying from Pepboys again.
Old Mar 20, 2017 | 04:04 PM
  #70  
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Originally Posted by RetroRanger
got my next statement no refund for reference purchsed online 1-6-17 returned using pepboys RMA and recd by pepboys 1-13-17.

called them today they asked for fedex trck # acknowledged it had been recd on 1-13 and stated you should receive a refund in 6-10 days....apparently if i hadnt called they werent going to refund my money ?

curious system they have
Finally credited my acct on 3-10.....almost 60 days after they received my return.

I'm not one to return much of anything once I've bought it, but I would think they could improve on their acct crediting turnaround time!
Old Mar 21, 2017 | 07:12 PM
  #71  
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Originally Posted by RetroRanger
Finally credited my acct on 3-10.....almost 60 days after they received my return.

I'm not one to return much of anything once I've bought it, but I would think they could improve on their acct crediting turnaround time!

It's ridiculous, isn't it?!

Pepboys may be the worst autoparts chain I've ever dealt with. I certainly won't be using them again. Not after this.

RetroRanger, I do take some comfort in the fact that they do this to everybody, you know, like it's not just me that they hate.
Old Mar 24, 2017 | 09:25 AM
  #72  
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Corporate structure

Pepboys I believe is a part of the General auto parts chain structure which includes Advanced and Carquest.
Old Jan 21, 2023 | 07:05 PM
  #73  
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Originally Posted by kevdog442
Bought mine a year ago from Autozone, was a copper 4 row. I remember there being conflicting specs on it depending on what site I was on, but took a chance.
I know this is an old thread but thought I would share this as it’s relevant. I bought the cu165 radiator and was happy to get a copper brass 4 core. Well, it lasted a couple years and was going to a car show and it sprung a leak. Took it to a radiator shop and the guy couldn’t believe what he found. Apparently ONE of the tanks was made out of steel and rusted from within. “Never seen anything like it” he says. Had a lifetime warranty at Autozone so they replaced it with (guess what) an aluminum/plastic unit. Said that was the part number. Oh well.
just wondering if any of you “lucky” ones had this is issue?
Old Jan 22, 2023 | 05:22 PM
  #74  
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Originally Posted by kevdog442
I know this is an old thread but thought I would share this as it’s relevant. I bought the cu165 radiator and was happy to get a copper brass 4 core. Well, it lasted a couple years and was going to a car show and it sprung a leak. Took it to a radiator shop and the guy couldn’t believe what he found. Apparently ONE of the tanks was made out of steel and rusted from within. “Never seen anything like it” he says. Had a lifetime warranty at Autozone so they replaced it with (guess what) an aluminum/plastic unit. Said that was the part number. Oh well.
just wondering if any of you “lucky” ones had this is issue?
Sounds like if you have an original it may be worth restoring or go for an aluminum replacement. I still have the copper original 3-row that came with the 350 ac motor.
Old Jan 22, 2023 | 06:14 PM
  #75  
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Old thread but restore your old radiator. My original had a small seepage when I purchased the car in July. 1971 Cutlass Convertible w/ the 350 4 bbl. I asked the shop remove it while they were rebuilding the trans & send it to a good local radiator shop. They'd rebuilt a Spitfire radiator for me many years ago & did a great job. Restored it completely for 200.00 at the radiator shop. The total repair including labor & new coolant was 325.00. Well worth it. I wouldn't want one of the newer cheap aluminum radiators in the car. A proper new one now lists for 600.00 to 800.00.

Last edited by Falkon; Jan 22, 2023 at 06:18 PM.
Old Jan 23, 2023 | 01:17 PM
  #76  
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I had the one for my '66 Toronado recored ten years ago for $500. I'm afraid to ask what it would cost today.
Old Jan 23, 2023 | 01:55 PM
  #77  
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I'll update my post, the radiator is still in the car and working great. I changed to a Flexalite 1818 fan, still no shroud, and don't have any real issues with idling temps anymore.
The radiator came with the car when I bought it and it's a single row, 1 1/4 core aluminum with plastic tanks, so 13 years now. Still running a 50/50 mix of old green Prestone.
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