CSF Radiator + Condenser, Upgrade
 

CSF has been designing radiators for the past 40 years for everything from automobiles to tanks. I feel that they're not very well known in the Japanese tuning community but they make some good quality and functional radiators at a good price.

One of their reps stopped by the office this week with their 370z radiator/condenser prototype for us to have a look. I believe this is the only aftermarket replacement for the 370z that has come out so far and from the numbers they're giving us, it looks like it will greatly help with the heating issues associated with the 370z.

Highlights:
CSF uses B-tube technology in their cores. These tubes are stronger, create more surface area with the water running through the unit, and increases the cooling efficency by 15% over standard tubes.

By using louvered fins, CSF is able to achieve a higher efficiency core with better airflow through both 1 and 2-row models. These models is wind tunnel tested by their R&D department to maximize the precision and efficiency of the core.

These units are "drop-in fit" for easy installation with OEM fittings and mountings. Each unit is complete with a professional aluminum drain plug.

CSF units undergo vibration, thermal cycle, burst cycle, salt spray, and leak test before being approved for construction. Even their boxes undergo a 10 foot drop test.

This High Performance and racing system will keep engine temperatures at optimal levels in the most demanding driving and outside temperature conditions. A gain of up to 40% better cooling can be realized with our units.

Let me know what you guys think. Open for any questions!

Availability: These will be released and in stock by August 2010.

Price: $849 (+$50 for the 7AT version)
If we can get a list of pre-orders going, I'll see if I can get everyone a discounted price.

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Specs:

Note* This is the handmade prototype. The production units will have even spaced fins and even nicer welds.
http://i601.photobucket.com/albums/t...om/Capture.jpg

http://i601.photobucket.com/albums/t.../P1020479w.jpg

http://i601.photobucket.com/albums/t.../P1020483w.jpg

http://i601.photobucket.com/albums/t.../P1020480w.jpg

http://i601.photobucket.com/albums/t.../P1020481w.jpg

http://i601.photobucket.com/albums/t.../P1020482w.jpg

http://i601.photobucket.com/albums/t.../P1020484w.jpg

http://i601.photobucket.com/albums/t.../P1020485w.jpg

http://i601.photobucket.com/albums/t.../P1020486w.jpg

http://i601.photobucket.com/albums/t.../P1020488w.jpg

-Mike Bratcher

are those bypass gaps at the end of the fin rows a design feature, or is that a prototype only issue?

Mike, after seeing all those JDM art pieces you usually advertise its hard to accept something with welds that look like Michael J. Fox welded after doing jumping jacks.


Just playing, looks pretty good!

I'll check with CSF.

Haha, good one :roflpuke2:
I actually was picky about those too, but CSF says it's just a prototype and that the production pieces will be cleaner.

-Mike Bratcher

:wtf2:

I get hot for cooling-enhancement products, but jeez, $850 for a radiator? Dang.

Do you have anything else to compare it to? I happen to think it's an amazing price for what you are getting. This should be a better solution than simply bolting on an oil cooler.

-Mike Bratcher

Pun intended?

And on topic I can't wait to see the final product. And I'm gonna throw this bone out there. Oil temp decrease as a result?

Yes, actually, the PWR and BHR and Koyo radiators we put in our RX-8s were between $350-$550 less than a year ago. These were beautifully made pieces, and as you may know, the rotary engine runs majorly hot and has its own special cooling needs. Thus, I believe the comparison is apt. I'm not knocking this effort, but it's high, no way around it. :stirthepot:

I feel it's unfair to compare radiators for different manufacturers and car models. I was more referring to comparing another radiator for the 370z. I don't believe there are any others. Also, keep in mind that this is a radiator and condenser combination.

I will admit that it does seem to be higher than the average radiator cost for other vehicles, but that can be said for many of the other parts for the 370z in general. Here's just one example; look how much HKS exhaust fluctuate between models. Many of them are even very similar designs:
HKS USA Hi-Power Exhaust

The point is, comparing parts from different cars isn't getting you anywhere. If you find a radiator and condenser combination that is cheaper, then we have something to talk about :)

I hope this helps!

-Mike Bratcher

It will be interesting to see the final product.
For now, it is the only option available for a replacement cooling radiator on the 370Z and I have it on my optiion list for the future.

OK, Mike, fair enough. Your points are well taken and yes, I did miss the fact of the condenser component being added to the equation--not just a straight-ahead radiator comparison. Take care.
Jeffrey :tiphat:

Thanks Jeffrey, and feel free to chime in if you have any other questions or concerns. I'm always happy to discuss.. that's the beauty of forums :hello:

-Mike Bratcher

Just wanted to update you guys on a few things.

The availability is still set for early-mid August. There will a limited amount in the first batch so if anyone is urgent, let me know ahead of time. More should follow shortly after.

Testing data should be released in 1-2 weeks.

CSF also reiterated that the build quality of these radiators will be "JDM" quality for the production units. They are putting a lot of focus on the quality of the units to set the standard for aftermarket 370z radiators. These are still the first radiators soon to be available for the 370z platform!

As always, ask any questions you're thinking.

-Mike Bratcher

has anyone even managed to get their car to over heat yet? maybe some with a TT. I have never seen my car go past middle temps even while beating the crap out of on hot days.