Are plastic radiators any good?

Question

The radiator on my 86 S-10 Blazer was replaced with a plastic one. How long should it last? Is it better than a metal one?

Answer 1

It is less expensive to replace, and a throw away when it fails. Life expectancy depends upon where you live. How long did the last radiator last? Since 86? I would not expect as long a life with a plastic replacement but it will depend a lot on the care it is given with proper fluid and levels maintained.

Answer 2

It should last several years if not another decade. The part of the radiator that holds the coolant are the plastic portions( the tanks). The part of the radiator that actually does work is made of aluminum or copper. So it really doesn't matter what the tanks are make of as long as they hold the coolant.

You should be fine with the installation of the radiator with the plastic tanks.

Answer 3

Are you sure that it's made of plastic? The core has to be some sort of metal. I have never heard of plastic radiators. Plasic is an insulator, It would make a very very poor radiator.

Answer 4

Plastic radiators have proven to be fairly decent. They don't rust and are more forgiving on movement, but at the same time more prone to breaking under duress. There are pros and cons, but basically the plastic radiator will work just fine.

Answer 5

Most radiators have plastic tanks these days. They'll last as long as any metal tanked radiator.

Answer 6

Plastic Radiators

Answer 7

Properly installed, It will probably outlast the rest of your vehicle

Answer 8

no