1275 midget equivalent replacement radiator

[recordsj]

Does anyone know of a good equivalent replacement (i.e. a radiator from a differnet car, maybe a more modern one that is easier/cheaper to obtain) radiator that will fit into a 1974 midget (as opposed to buying a 1275 midget radaiator from Moss or VM)?

 

[Rut]

I believe there's a VW radiator that fits well, but I can't remember which one. Hopefully someone will be along pretty soon who knows.
Rut

 

[recordsj]

If anyone has a link to a good website that shows what is needed to be done in using a different radiator, please provide the link also.

 

[JOeyKnapp]

Maybe search for people who have done rotary swaps, or otherwise. Those guys seem to end up using different radiators..

 

[Rut]

Use the advanced search function, select spridgets, type in vw radiator, 1 year and search. Numerous threads on the subject.
HTH, Rut

 

[Jim_Gruber]

Take a look at Sprite Spot Forum. Frank C provided details on using a Geo Metro Radiator. Pics are there. Automatic Version is the one you want. This one os also available in a 3 Row version. It's something like 12 x 12 in size.

 

[Jim_Gruber]

Look under Cooling Section

 

[bill_powell]

recordsj, here's a SpriteSpot article:

https://www.spritespot.com/phpBB3/viewtopic.php?f=34&t=113&p=20376&hilit=geo#p20376

BTW: I assume you've a 1500? (If you have a 1275, I went another route on mine...)

 

[recordsj]

correct I have a 1500 (the car is a 1974 with a 1500 that a previous owner installed with a spitfire OD).


Jason

 

[bill_powell]

Understood; BTW, I have read on several occasions that the Metro is a good option.

On my 1275, I ended up installing an aluminum unit from Champion radiator; no complaints. In fact, it's been a great radiator. Cost about $140 shipped, if I remember right. Bought on their eBay store.

Here's a thread discussing Champion's radiator:

https://www.mgexperience.net/phorum/read.php?3,1981675,page=1

I do not know if they carry one for the 1500, but you never know. If you want, give 'em a call and see. Here's their website:

https://www.championradiators.com/


Either way, good luck on the project!

Bill

 

[nomad]

correct I have a 1500 (the car is a 1974 with a 1500 that a previous owner installed with a spitfire OD).


Jason

Always wondered if the Spitfire OD trans setup would fit! Why did'nt the factory offer it?

Kurt.

 

[JPSmit]

correct I have a 1500 (the car is a 1974 with a 1500 that a previous owner installed with a spitfire OD).


Jason

Always wondered if the Spitfire OD trans setup would fit! Why did'nt the factory offer it?

Kurt.

it will but the transmission tunnel needs to be massaged - which is why (I suspect) it was never offered.

 

[recordsj]

with a 1500 engine in a 1974 mg midget that has a 1275 radiator with a cowl for for a 1275, anyone know if a 1500 radiator would fit into the 1275 cowl?

Or does anyone know if the 1500 radiator is the same size as the 1275 (other than possibly the inlet/outlet)?

With having a 1500 engine should I have the 1500 radiator (in other words does the 1500 radiator have a better matched capacity for the 1500 engine than the 1275 radiator)?

 

[nomad]

It is bigger and it will fit but you may not be able to use your heater air inlet since it offset's to the right of the car. That may not be a concern for a 74 since, I believe they may have had the heater change anyway. Of course radiator hose's and such will have to be routed.

Kurt.