I have a 1955 olds 88 that needs a radiator. Noticed a leak while changing oil the other day. Does anyone know where I can get a replacement? Trying to explore my options of replace or rebuild.

 

I would have your original radiator repaired if you still have the original “Harrison” radiator. If you live in the Chicago area there is a shop called Triangle Auto Service on 4060 N. Elston. I had them recore my radiator on my Olds. It was around $400.00. Yours might not need a recore but a repair?

 

Thanks. I was probably going to have mine redone at Mel's in Melrose Park on Lake St. He said he could do it. I've used them for bus radiators. I just wanted to compare with someone who possibly manufactured one.

 

No one makes that NEW, presently..... ReCore ONLY......

 

I used an aluminum radiator on my 54. Nobody makes one for a 54 Olds so after much study and measuring, I used one for a 68 Dodge Coronet. It is the correct width to slide in the mount and has the inlet on the left side. It is not quite as tall as the Olds radiator and you have to cut the lower hose a little bit and use an bushing in the lower hose since it is smaller. I also made an air damn to use below the radiator so all the air would go through the radiator and not below it. I did it to cool the car since I have air conditioning in it. I spent $600 having my original recored into a 3 care and it didn't help. I think the fins were too close together to move enough air.

 

There were two radiators in 1955; one for factory air conditioning; another without A.C.

 

Thanks. I knew about the AC concern. I have no ac. I tried looking at the interchange parts catalog and that just led to a headache and a bunch of confusion. Rebuild it is.

 

try classicradiator.com . I got one from them a few yrs ago for my 55. can't tell it from the original. even has Harrison on it. 30% better cooling. they may not have it in stock, but they can get it for you

 

When I bought my 55 Olds there was no radiator in it. Got a used original one (Harrison) from a gentleman in Arizona and had it shipped to CA. I figured the core was shot but the the frame an tank were in good shape so I had it recored with a larger 4 core. Nice and cool now.

 

I use a great guy here in NJ, who does custom built radiators for street rods, and does a lot of national mailings. CARS, Custom Auto Radiator Service. He will build you one from scratch, with several choices of core types and sizes. With or without lots of options, like trans cooler, AC condensor, coolant sensor bung, built in overflow, etc. Uses the old style copper and brass construction. Great guys to work with!