I hit a coyote. Help me buy a radiator - 986 Forum - The Community for Porsche Boxster & Cayman Owners

bigbuber · 10-10-2023, 03:26 PM

I hit a coyote and busted the radiator in my 2001 boxster s. Not sure if the condensor is busted too, but it is pretty bent. Anyway, I think I read that this 1997-2000 radiator should work for mine, but according to the website, its not compatible. Does anyone know if this is true? The correct one according to porsche parts websites is like $500, while the one I linked it $100.. Anyone know if I have any other choice than to drop $500?

my car: https://preview.redd.it/1p1xqj2r9ykb1.jpg?width=640&crop=smart&auto=webp&4ff2d247

LoneWolfGal · 10-11-2023, 08:13 AM

You might have a look at the radiators available on eBay:

https://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_from=R40&_trksid=p4432023.m570.l1313&_nkw=2001+boxster+s+radiator&_sacat=0

78F350 · 10-11-2023, 12:52 PM

+1 to eBay.
It's been a few years since I needed one, but I received a complete unit with frame and fan in good condition for $150 shipped. Used from a high-rated major seller should be affordable and good.
Here's one from a seller I've been happy with. The one in photo looks a bit dirty, but the complete unit like that is probably the best bet if you don't want to do $$$ for new.

https://www.ebay.com/itm/162645132902?

I don't know this seller, but looks good:

https://www.ebay.com/itm/166189637043?
A couple other sellers that I highly recommend:

https://www.ebay.com/str/qualityporscheparts

https://www.ebay.com/str/specializedgermanrecycling

10/10ths · 10-11-2023, 02:10 PM

Just buy a CSF radiator.

LoneWolfGal · 10-11-2023, 08:17 PM

I don't see how you could go wrong with this new radiator, a direct replacement:

https://www.ebay.com/itm/175872807394?fits=Submodel%3AS%7CYear%3A2001%7CMod el%3ABoxster

Starter986 · 10-12-2023, 03:26 AM

Username checks out.

Gilles · 10-12-2023, 11:13 AM

Was the coyote ok..?

PLP · 10-13-2023, 04:05 AM

If the fan is OK, replace radiator with used (eBay) or a new aftermarket.
If your fan is messed up as well - get a used one from eBay, but get OEM.

Aftermarket, from what I heard and observed myself, have problems with balancing.

jrj3rd · 10-13-2023, 08:31 AM

Behr makes them for Porsche. ~$250 almost anywhere. Would not buy a second hand radiator for one of these cars. To many have early signs of rot from dirt and junk in radiator fins and little to no history of cleaning.

paulofto · 10-15-2023, 06:24 AM

I replaced my left side rad in 2018 due to a pinhole leak. Paid under 250 CDN from R O C K auto for a Behr rad delivered to my door. Relatively easy job. Drained and replaced coolant at the same time.

bigbuber · 10-16-2023, 05:43 PM

The Coyote did not make it. It was hit so hard that hair was left in my tire bead, and it flew 10 feet off the road. At least it was instant..

I should mention that the air duct got destroyed. They seem to be pretty expensive to buy alone ($60 to $120), so I think it will be best if I buy a full used assembly off ebay

bigbuber · 10-19-2023, 12:55 PM

Anybody know if I replace just one side with a CSF radiator, if that will create any imbalance issues?

Thanks for the replies everyone.

Gilles · 10-19-2023, 07:01 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by bigbuber

Anybody know if I replace just one side with a CSF radiator, if that will create any imbalance issues?

Thanks for the replies everyone.

I don't think that you will have any issues as it seems that the radiators are connected 'in series' this means that the hot water enter one radiator and thereafter it goes to the next radiator before returning to the rear of the car.