Finding a replacement radiator for the CRX VTEC
Finding a replacement radiator was not easy, I had two suppliers send the the wrong part despite having warned about the similarity of the VTEC radiator to the non-VTEC.
The first difference between the two radiators is that the cap on the non-VTEC radiator mounts directly on the top tank and on the VTEC one it is set back on an extended neck. The second less obvious difference is the size of the pipe connections, below is a table comparing the two. Either radiator will fit in any car but you will be unable to connect it up.
Year | 1989-1991 | 1990-1991 |
Engine Code | D16Ax | B16A |
Engine Size | 1590cc | 1595cc |
Chassis Codes | ||
Hose Connection | 28mm | 32mm |
Core Thickness | 16mm | 16mm |
Core Width | 690mm | 690mm |
Core Height | 315mm | 315mm |
The non-VTEC radiator is used in Civic/CRX's with D series engines no matter if they are SOHC or DOHC (1.6-16v, 1.5x, GL etc). The VTEC radiator will only fit cars with a VTEC engine.
I managed to get one from a supplier of Nissens radiators - http://www.nissens.dk their online catalogue shows the correct radiator but is
Description | Radiator |
Compatibility | |
Honda Part Number | 19010-PW0-014 |
Nissens Part Number | 63301 |
Nissens Product Number | 325750 |
This radiator is not remanufactured and 100% new (unlike most which are new core on old end tanks), although you do pay a premium.
The fans bolt up perfectly and you are supplied with clips, although I chose to use the original Honda ones as they are stainless steel.
The design of the top and bottom tanks is slightly different to the original part. It looks like Nissens have altered an existing mould and there is an extra fan mount on the lower tank.