Radiator interchangeability

[1977320is]

Would there be any issues installing a 1978-83 automatic transmission radiator in a 1977 manual E21?

(Aside from getting an automatic lower radiator hose with an extra bend to accommodate the side outlet?)

I can get a nice reconditioned one for 1/3 the price and hassle of having the original recored.

[320iAman]

So long as its same size, lines up correctly ,fits in the bottom holders and secures in on top , there should be no difference, the bottom holes are for automatic transmission fluid cooling.

Randy

[1977320is]

So long as its same size, lines up correctly ,fits in the bottom holders and secures in on top , there should be no difference, the bottom holes are for automatic transmission fluid cooling.

Randy

That's what I was hoping to determine before submitting an order sight unseen.

Does anyone know if there was anything unique about the 1977 radiator set up, or is the 1978-83 listing just an oversight?

[Erik Dlux]

I have one pulled from an 83 and one from a 77. I didn't notice any difference.

[1977320is]

Here's a belated follow up:

I'm not sure if it's a pre- and post-facelift thing or auto vs manual, but the mounting tabs on what was sold to me as an all-metal 1978-83 radiator are located at the upper corners rather than at the sides. Lower hose outlet is also different, but that's an easy fix. I suppose I could have jury-rigged something, but lucked into a correct reconditioned 1977-compatible radiator. {see pics, if they load}

E21 radiator 1.jpgE21 radiator 2.jpg

Unfortunately that didn't solve my over-heating (or verging thereon) problem when the car is not moving. Radiator is properly bled and I'm not hearing or seeing or hearing anything suspicious from the water pump. The two-year-old thermostat appears to open up when the gauge hits the midpoint (that's when lower hose gets hot). Does that seem right? Seems like it used to run around 1/4 - 1/3. Aux fan kicks at about 2/3s. Haven't let it go beyond 3/4s. Could it be that it's not really overheating but an issue w sender, gauge or wiring?

I ordered a new thermostat, sender, aux fan switch and water pump. Would like to avoid messing w the latter, but should I just go ahead and do it all while the system is drained? Any tricks/tips/common mistakes?

Is anyone in the market for a pretty -- and presumably AOK -- all-metal stock radiator for a later and/or automatic E21 for $100 plus shipping? I can check part number if desired.

[Vermont320i]

If you still have that late model radiator, I need one. Mine has mounting tabs on upper corners like the one in the left of your pic. Is that the one? PM me, please.