Aftermarket Nissan S13 Radiator Mounts for Performance Upgrades

Understanding the Nissan S13 Chassis Radiator Mounts

The Nissan S13 chassis platform, sold from 1988-1994 under the 240SX model name, has remained an extremely popular sports coupe for enthusiasts. A key aspect of any successful S13 build is properly mounting the radiator for optimal cooling effectiveness.

Radiator Options for the Nissan S13

When upgrading or replacing the original radiator on an S13, most owners choose to go with an aluminum racing radiator over a stock OEM radiator. Racing radiators offer increased cooling capacity and reduced weight. Popular brands like Koyo, Mishimoto, and CSF provide direct S13 fitment options.

Along with choosing the radiator itself, S13 owners need to select the appropriate radiator mounts to securely fasten the new radiator while allowing some movement for expansion and contraction during heating/cooling cycles.

OEM S13 Radiator Mounts

The OEM radiator mounts on a stock S13 consist of two rubber grommets on the upper section and a plastic air guide mounted to the lower section. These factory mounts work fine for mild street use, but are not ideal for upgraded cooling systems.

The rigid plastic air guide on the lower mounts can crack over time. The upper rubber grommets tend to compress permanently, allowing unwanted radiator movement. Upgrading to aftermarket radiator mounts provides a more secure, durable solution.

Aftermarket Upper Radiator Mounts

When upgrading the radiator on an S13, replacing the weak factory upper mounts with an aftermarket set is highly recommended. Popular options like the Garage Vary and PLM upper mounts bolt to existing chassis holes for easy install.

These upper mounts are made from reinforced nylon or aluminum to avoid compression or cracking. They securely hold the new radiator in position while allowing the slight movement needed during expansion/contraction cycles induced by heating and cooling.

Aftermarket Lower Radiator Mounts

The lower radiator mounts for an S13 upgrade consist of aluminum brackets that bolt to the bottom corners of the new racing radiator. These brackets include mounting holes allowing them to be securely fastened to the chassis, positioned just behind the lower air conditioning condenser mount and in front of the hood latch support.

Companies like Driven Engineering and ISR Performance make direct fitment lower radiator mounts for the S13 crafted from heavy-duty aluminum to properly brace the lower section of the radiator.

Installing Aftermarket S13 Radiator Mounts

When installing upgraded radiator mounts onto an S13 chassis, the process consists of the following general steps:

Remove Stock Mounts

First remove the old, worn out stock radiator mounts to prepare for fitting the new mounts. Removing the lower plastic air guide and upper rubber grommets takes only basic hand tools.

Install New Radiator

With the original mounts removed, install your new performance aluminum radiator, ensuring proper fitment between the A/C condenser and hood latch supports. Connect all cooling lines before mounting.

Attach Upper Mounts

Attach your new reinforced nylon or aluminum upper mounts using the provided hardware and existing holes in the chassis. Leave bolts slightly loose to allow adjustment when attaching the lower brackets.

Attach Lower Mounts

The lower mounting brackets for most aftermarket kits utilize existing holes near the hood latches. Hold each aluminum bracket against the chassis, mark the holes, and drill if necessary for a secure fit. With all hardware in place, tighten both upper and lower mount bolts to complete the installation.

Summary

Upgrading the outdated, weak factory radiator mounts is a smart maintenance step when replacing the stock S13 radiator. Quality aftermarket mounts from Garage Vary, PLM, Driven Engineering or ISR Performance properly secure the new aluminum racing radiator.

Carefully removing the old mounts, installing the upgraded radiator, then attaching reinforced upper and lower mounts dialed-in to the chassis results in cooling confidence and reliable S13 performance.

FAQs

Why should I upgrade the radiator mounts on my S13?

The factory radiator mounts on an S13 consist of rubber grommets up top and a plastic air guide on the bottom. These components crack and compress over time, allowing unwanted radiator movement which can negatively impact cooling performance. Upgraded mounts made from reinforced nylon and aluminum properly secure the radiator.

What are the best aftermarket upper radiator mounts?

Brands like Garage Vary and PLM make direct fit reinforced nylon S13 upper mounts that utilize factory bolt holes for easy install. The materials won't compress like stock rubber and securely hold the racing radiator in place long-term.

What are the best aftermarket lower radiator mounts?

The top options for S13 lower radiator mounts are from companies like Driven Engineering and ISR Performance. The heavy duty aluminum brackets bolt to the bottom of the radiator and chassis for maximum support and cooling airflow.

Is installing aftermarket mounts difficult?

Not at all. Removing the factory mounts is simple and the new mounts utilize existing bolt holes on the chassis for direct OEM-style fitment. Basic hand tools are all that’s needed for the upgrade which can be done in under an hour.