When your engine is running hot, nothing restores peace of mind like a high-quality cooling system upgrade. For racers, restorers, and performance enthusiasts, the radiator is the heart of this system, responsible for dissipating immense heat and maintaining optimal operating temperatures. Choosing the right one is critical for both performance and reliability.
AFCO has built a formidable reputation in the racing world for producing durable and efficient cooling components. Their radiators are engineered for extreme conditions, from oval tracks to demanding street applications. This review roundup will guide you through nine of the best AFCO radiators and essential accessories to help you find the perfect cooling solution for your vehicle’s needs.
Our Top AFCO Radiator Picks
- AFCO High Performance Radiator Hose Kit
- AFCO 80185NDP Dirt Late Model Lightweight Radiator
- AFCO 80185NDP-16 Dirt Late Model Radiator
- AFCO 80202N, 305 Sprint Triple Pass Radiator
- NOCO GENIUS1 Smart Battery Charger
- AFCO Economy Universal GM Aluminum Racing Radiator
- LUXERAD 3 Row Aluminum Radiator for Ford Mustang
- AFCO 80106N Super Stock Aluminum Radiator
- AFCO 80108N Economy Aluminum Radiator
AFCO High Performance Radiator Hose Kit
Complement your radiator upgrade with this high-performance hose kit designed for durability and a clean installation. The hoses are constructed from robust silicone that can handle extreme under-hood temperatures without degrading, cracking, or becoming brittle over time. This ensures a reliable seal and long service life, even in demanding racing conditions.
The kit includes several 90-degree elbows and lightweight aluminum cooling hose adaptors, providing the flexibility needed to complete most custom installations. This comprehensive approach means you have the essential components on hand to route your cooling system efficiently and professionally, reducing the need for sourcing individual parts from multiple suppliers.
AFCO 80185NDP Dirt Late Model Lightweight Double Pass Radiator
Engineered for the rigors of dirt track racing, this double-pass radiator is built to provide maximum cooling in a lightweight package. Its design incorporates an increased number of tubes and fins within the same core height, significantly boosting the surface area available for heat dissipation. The optimum fin-per-inch ratio is calculated to promote the highest level of cooling efficiency.
This radiator also includes a standard water pressure bung, which simplifies the plumbing process for your cooling system. The double-pass design forces coolant to travel the entire length of the radiator twice, allowing more time for heat to be transferred away from the engine, resulting in consistently lower operating temperatures.
AFCO 80185NDP-16 Dirt Late Model Lightweight Double Pass Radiator
This specific model is a variant of the popular 80185NDP, tailored for particular vehicle configurations and plumbing setups. With dimensions of 27.5 inches wide by 20 inches high and a 2-inch depth, it offers a substantial cooling capacity while maintaining a lightweight aluminum construction. The dual-pass design is key to its effective heat transfer capabilities.
It features a passenger-side inlet and a passenger-side outlet, which can simplify installation in vehicles where this routing is preferred or required. This model is an excellent choice for racers looking for a proven, track-ready cooling component that fits within the constraints of their specific chassis design.
AFCO 80202N, 305 Sprint Triple Pass Radiator
For the ultimate in cooling performance, the triple-pass design of this radiator ensures coolant spends even more time inside the core, releasing heat through three separate passes. It is constructed from 100% aluminum and is completely TIG welded, avoiding the use of any epoxy that can fail under stress. Each unit is pressure-tested to guarantee integrity right out of the box.
The cast filler necks are a standout feature, as they include screw-in bleeds and are designed to resist cracking or leaking with age. This robust construction is essential for high-horsepower applications where cooling system pressure and temperature fluctuations are severe, making it a top-tier choice for sprint cars and other extreme-performance vehicles.
NOCO GENIUS1 Smart Battery Charger
While not a radiator, a reliable electrical system is crucial for your cooling system’s fans and water pump. The GENIUS1 is a compact yet powerful all-in-one solution that functions as a battery charger, maintainer, trickle charger, and desulfator. Its advanced design is compatible with 6V and 12V lead-acid and lithium-ion batteries, making it versatile for any garage.
An integrated thermal sensor is a key benefit, as it dynamically adjusts the charge based on the ambient temperature. This prevents overcharging in hot weather and undercharging in cold conditions, ensuring your battery is always ready to deliver the power needed for your vehicle’s critical cooling components.
AFCO Economy Universal GM Aluminum Racing Radiator, 22 Inch
This 22-inch universal radiator offers a cost-effective cooling solution for a wide range of GM applications and custom projects. Its aluminum construction provides excellent heat dissipation without the weight of a traditional brass and copper core. The universal nature of this radiator makes it a popular choice for hot rods, street machines, and budget-conscious racers.
Despite its “economy” designation, it is built to perform, offering a reliable upgrade over stock units. It provides a solid foundation for anyone needing to improve their vehicle’s cooling capacity without the need for a specialized, application-specific racing radiator.
LUXERAD 3 Row Aluminum Radiator for Ford Mustang
This LUXERAD unit is a direct-fit replacement for a variety of Ford models, including the 1979-1993 Mustang. Its three-row aluminum core design increases cooling capacity compared to many stock radiators, making it a strong upgrade for both street and mild performance use. The overall size is 29.25 by 19.25 inches, with a 1.5-inch inlet and a 1.26-inch outlet.
For owners of classic Fox-body Mustangs and similar vehicles, this radiator provides a straightforward installation that can handle increased engine output. The improved thermal efficiency helps maintain stable engine temperatures during spirited driving or in stop-and-go traffic.
AFCO 80106N Super Stock Aluminum Radiator
The AFCO 80106N Super Stock radiator is designed for racers who need a competitive edge in Super Stock and other sanctioned racing classes. It balances effective cooling with the specific rule-set requirements of these racing categories. The aluminum construction keeps weight down while providing superior heat exchange properties.
This model is built to withstand the high-RPM, high-load conditions seen on the drag strip. Its robust design ensures that it can manage the intense heat generated during a pass and the subsequent cooldown period, providing consistent performance run after run.
AFCO 80108N Economy Aluminum Radiator
As part of AFCO’s economy line, the 80108N offers a practical and affordable aluminum radiator solution. It is an excellent choice for daily drivers, project cars, or any application where a reliable and efficient cooling upgrade is needed without a premium price tag. The all-aluminum build is a significant improvement over outdated stock designs.
This radiator proves that you don’t always need a top-tier racing component to achieve better cooling. It provides a solid, dependable performance that will keep your engine running at the right temperature for thousands of miles, making it a smart value for budget-minded enthusiasts.
Buying Guide: What to Look For in an AFCO Radiator
When you’re picking out a new radiator, especially for a performance application, it can feel like there are a million options. I’ve found that focusing on a few key areas makes the decision a lot easier. For anyone looking at the best AFCO radiator for cooling performance, here’s what I always consider.
First, you need to think about core size and construction. This is the heart of the radiator. A larger core generally means more cooling capacity because there’s more surface area for heat exchange. I look at the core dimensions—width, height, and thickness. But it’s not just about physical size. The number of rows in the core is a common talking point, but the fin density is often more important. High-fin-density cores have more cooling fins per inch, which pulls more heat from the tubes. For a street car with occasional track use, a two-row, high-fin-density core is often perfect. For all-out race applications, you might need a massive three or four-row core.
Next, material matters. AFCO typically uses aluminum for its radiators, and for good reason. Aluminum is an excellent heat conductor, much better than traditional copper/brass. This means it transfers heat from the coolant to the air more efficiently. I also check how the radiator is put together. Look for units that are TIG-welded. This process creates a stronger, more reliable seal than other methods, which is crucial for handling vibration and pressure over the long term. You don’t want a leak springing up after a hard drive.
Finally, don’t overlook the fit and the extra features. A radiator might have amazing cooling potential, but if it doesn’t fit correctly in your vehicle’s engine bay, it’s just a shiny paperweight. I always double-check the inlet and outlet sizes and their locations to make sure they line up with my existing hoses. Also, consider if you need built-in transmission cooler passages. If you have an automatic, this is a huge bonus as it helps keep your transmission fluid temps in check. Some models even have provisions for oil coolers, which is a great integrated solution. Paying attention to these details ensures you get a part that works with your setup, not against it.
FAQ
What makes an AFCO radiator better for cooling than a stock one?
Stock radiators are designed for average driving conditions and are often built with a focus on cost. An AFCO radiator is built for performance. They typically use high-quality aluminum with efficient core designs that have more surface area and better fin density. This allows them to dissipate heat much more effectively, which is critical when you’re pushing your engine hard, towing, or driving in hot climates. The upgrade is often one of the most effective ways to manage engine temperatures.
Can I install an AFCO radiator myself, or do I need a professional?
If you’re comfortable with basic mechanical work, you can probably handle the installation. It generally involves draining the coolant, removing a few hoses and brackets, swapping the old unit out, and putting the new one in. However, it’s important to be meticulous about bleeding the air out of the cooling system afterward to prevent overheating. If you’re not confident in doing this, or if your vehicle has complex electronic fans, having a professional handle it is a smart move to ensure it’s done correctly.
Do I need to modify my car to fit a larger AFCO radiator?
It depends on the specific model you choose. Many AFCO radiators are direct-fit replacements, meaning they are designed to drop into the factory location using the existing mounting points. However, some of their high-performance or universal models are larger and may require some modification to the core support or fan shroud. Always check the product specifications for fitment details for your exact year, make, and model before purchasing.
How important is the fan setup with a new performance radiator?
It’s extremely important. The radiator cools the coolant, but the fans are what pull air through that radiator, especially at low speeds or when idling. A high-performance radiator can be hamstrung by a weak stock fan. I often pair a good radiator with a high-flow electric fan setup. This ensures you have adequate airflow in all driving conditions, maximizing the cooling performance of your entire system.
Are all AFCO radiators suitable for street use?
Not necessarily. While many of their radiators are perfectly fine for street-driven vehicles, some are designed specifically for racing. These race-focused models might lack features like a cap or an overflow tank nipple, which are essential for a sealed street system. When you’re looking at the options for your 9 best AFCO radiator review for cooling performance, make sure to select a model that is listed as being compatible with street applications if that’s your intended use.