Duke of Hazard wrote: ( 1991 Civic hatchback ) Can we buy a new radiator online instead of from a dealer to save money: I would think we would have to know the part number but I doubt we can find it out so easily, or can we? ________________________________________________
A good radiator shop can sometimes save an older radiator, recore it, or build you a new one. I am a believer in brass radiators. Aluminum and plastic save weight, but I am not convinced that the long term durability is worth the weight saving. HLS. _________________________________________________
You don't need the part number. The website of the retailer will have an area where you will select your car's make, model, engine size, etc. and the part number and price will appear.
Many cars have aluminum radiators with plastic tanks. I prefer brass radiators, after reading horror stories about plastic crimp joints leaking, plastic input tubes collapsing from hose clamps, and plastic tanks shattering under vibration or cold temperature. And aluminum fins smear, close up and look ugly if you touch them even lightly.
I bought a brass radiator for my 92 Buick Roadmaster online from RockautoDOTcom. They sent a plastic unit instead and when I complained they said their catalog mistakenly showed the brass part but that the plastic radiator was an exact replacement. After some stressful phone calls they took back their plastic radiator.
I finally bought a brass radiator from ArrowheadradiatorDOTcom. It is more substantial than a plastic one and still perfect after one year.
Good luck.
Rodan.