I have to replace the original radiator in my 56 victoria with a 292 engine. I have seen the aluminum 2 row radiator on ebay for a decent price and the 3 rows jumps considerable in price. Any one have experience with the 2 row? I live in Texas so it will get hot.

Skyliner

I lived in Dallas for 5 horrible years. Thought I would die from the heat. I have a 2 row rad in my 55bird. It ran fine and cooled ok. I switched from a stock fan to a 6 blade and the cooling worked much better. I drove 26 miles one way to work and never an overheat. Coming home was stop and go for miles. So, I guess I am saying 2 rows is ok just get a different fan even an elec would be ok.  

55Birdman  Hickory NC

A clean 2 row , In your case  new , should more than do the job . M ore rows would be needed for extreme driving conditions like racing . When these cars were built , Im fairly sure the size of the radiators were not considered for geographical destinations .

Aluminum transfers heat better than the original. More frontal area actually helps more than thicker cores, but this is not possible in your case. I think 2 rows would be plenty. Air flow is very important. You might consider a shroud. I made one for a 56 back in the 60s and it kept her cool under all conditions from driving 120 to being stuck in down town traffic. There are factory shrouds available now that are probably a lot prettier than the one I built.

Kenneth

Fredricksburg, Texas

According to Walker Radiators (in business for 70 years) in an article in the June -09 Street Rodder, there's little evidence that Aluminum radiators cool better than a good copper/brass radiator. Also, the originals are more durable & repairable.. And if I may comment on Skyliners inquiry, if his 56 happens to be relatively stock, an aluminum rad will look out of place on it.

Paul