Radiator for a SE

[billybunter]

hi all
SE owners- when do you guys change the original factory radiator and what are the warning signs to look out for. plus what is a good brand and a straight forward easy fit without overdoing it for quality and price.
BB

[green_comet]

When the top tank turns brown it's a warning that it's not going to last much longer, after that it'll eventually start to develop small cracks and start leaking.

You can't go wrong with a Koyo radiator for replacement, affordable and excellent quality, I can highly recommend a Koyo V2277.

[ManiacLachy]

If the plastic tanks along the top is turning green-brown (should be black when fresh) and/or has visible crack lines, then it's time to swap.

I had mine swapped out at ~100k km with a new OEM SE radiator. The SE radiator is different from the normal NB radiator, and is more efficient for the added heat generated by our cars, so if you go the OEM route make sure it's the right one.

I know others have gone with other alternetives such as Koyo, but I'm not sure of the specs used.

[Roadrunner]

If its just street dríven the factory SE radiator is the best replacement. (make sure its the SE radiator being fitted, not just a normal NB rad)
If you want a bit of bling the v2277 Koyo is just as good as the SE unit.
Don't go a generic 42mm etc alloy radiator in an SE. They are good for NA engines etc but are less efficient than the factory SE unit so you'll go backwards in cooling.
Ultimate - Flyin Miata crossflow and spal fans. but unnecessary on the street unless you are heavily modified power wise.

[Lokiel]

See mazda-speed.com regarding this topic, as others have said, the SE/MSM radiator is different to regular NB radiators (FM found it to be better than many aftermarket radiators) and the SE requires better cooling than a N/A NB.

Fan fitment will also be an issue to be aware of with an aftermarket radiator, some will require the fitting of slimmer fans which will add to the cost/hassle.