Topic: Welding to universal radiators
Totally not related to a Lemons car, however, a friend asked if I'd help him with mounting a universal aluminum radiator in his car. He wants to simply weld on some aluminum bars (I think they're 1/8" thick and 1-1/5" wide strips). His plan was then to drill the appropriate holes to match stock mounting.
Questions for the Lemons hive mind. I've heard some people say that welding to aluminum radiators cause weak points that will fail next time you get the engine a little too hot. I'm sure the truth here depends on your welding skill. However, anyone seen any truth to this?
Other things I've heard (and I believe this more), if you hard mount (like it sounds he wants to), you'll transfer stress from the shifting chassis to the radiator. So there needs to be isolation of some sort. At a minimum rubber bushings, or, avoid welding to the radiator altogether and just weld up some upper and lower cradles. Again thoughts?
Probably over thinking again.
Abandoned E36 Build
2008 Saab 9-5Aero Wagon
Retired - 1989 Dodge Daytona Shelby 2011-2015 "Lifetime Award for Lack of Achievement" IOE, 3X I got screwed, Organizer's Choice