Ok, I'm thinking this all makes sense, but figured I would run it by others before final decision. I purchased a replacement aftermarket radiator (and at the Web site there was only one part number for this brand). What came was an automatic model radiator with the copper pipes for the trans cooler. I have a manual, but I am told it doesn't matter, this will work for both - no leaks. On the surface this makes sense because I'm thinking the pipes for the trans cooler run in the bottom tank, but because nothing would be connected to them, it wouldn't really matter. Coolant doesn't run through them....

Am I right here or return this puppy for a manual-specific rad?

Thanks much!

 

return

 

Hello. I manage a large online radiator store. I wont say which one, but I know we didn't sell you yours (unless you bought it more than two months ago. Not a common unit to sell).

Radiators are most commonly made in unifit designs today. This is to control cost the truth is that it would be foolish to make two parts for what is essentially on application. Many times two part numbers are carried, they are identical save the tanks aren't punched for the trans cooler lines.

Besides aftermarket units, mechanics and used parts places have sold and installed radiators from automatic applications into manual applications.

They are closed, independent systems. Think about what would happen if you mixed coolant and transmission fluid in a vehicle with an automatic transmission.
If nothing goes in the tranny cooler, nothing will come out.

So, you could return it, but why? You'd just be paying more for the same thing with different dressings. UNLESS the form factor is different. If you'll tell menthe year make and model of your car, along with the part number of the radiator, I can check my Dpi book tomorrow.

Just out of curiosity, where did you purchase your radiator?

 

Thanks very much for your thoughtful reply. It was purchased at RockAuto and frankly, it was my fault for not noticing that of the several products that they offered, this was the only one that did not differentiate between AT and manual cars (I have an '05 RX8). I realize that the trans cooler lines go through the tank and do not 'mix,' as you say, but with a car that typically creates as much heat as the RX8 does, I was also concerned about not losing any of the valuable cooling capacity.

Thanks again for your thoughts.

 

I'm fairly certain they mount slightly differently, thus my comment