With the passage of time and advancements in automotive technology, it becomes essential to consider upgrading the cooling system of classic vehicles such as the BMW E28 M5 and E24 M6. The original factory radiators from the 1980s, while adequate during their era, no longer meet the demands of modern performance and reliability standards. The CSF BMW E28 M5 / E24 M6 High-Performance All-Aluminum Radiator addresses these needs by combining advanced engineering with premium materials to deliver superior cooling efficiency and durability.
CSF brings over 50 years of expertise in radiator manufacturing, ensuring that each product meets stringent quality and performance benchmarks. This radiator is engineered to provide optimal cooling for both street-driven vehicles and those subjected to the rigors of track use. Whether your E28 M5 or E24 M6 is a high horsepower build or a race-prepped machine, this radiator is designed to maintain ideal engine temperatures under demanding conditions.
At the core of this radiator lies a 1-Row 31mm aluminum core featuring CSF's exclusive B-Tube Technology. Unlike conventional oval-shaped "O" tubes, the B-Tube design utilizes a specially engineered "B"-shaped tube that is seam-brazed for enhanced strength and sealing integrity. This innovative design allows the use of thinner, lighter aluminum material while increasing the heat transfer surface area by approximately 15% compared to traditional tubes. The result is the efficiency equivalent to two smaller tubes occupying the same space as one larger tube, facilitating dual liquid laminar flow for superior heat dissipation.
Complementing the B-Tube technology are ultra-efficient multi-louvered fins, meticulously aligned to maximize airflow through the radiator core. These fins are precisely engineered and tested in CSF’s wind-tunnel laboratory to ensure maximum heat rejection efficiency tailored to the specific requirements of the E28 M5 and E24 M6 models.
The CSF radiator is designed as a true “drop-in fit” replacement, requiring no modifications for installation. All mounting brackets are CNC machined and welded to OEM specifications, ensuring exceptional durability and a secure fit. The inlet and outlet connections are engineered to match original equipment, allowing reuse of OEM or aftermarket hoses without issue. This attention to detail guarantees a seamless upgrade experience and reliable performance.
Product Details
Design & Engineering
CSF collaborated closely with A/C Solutions, a company founded by Austin Caccavo, a dedicated E28 enthusiast. Austin’s passion for the E28 platform and his experience upgrading his own vehicle’s A/C system laid the foundation for this partnership. Initially, CSF supplied A/C condensers for A/C Solutions’ upgrade kits, which evolved into a joint effort to develop a high-performance radiator specifically for the E28 M5. This collaboration ensured that the radiator’s design met exacting standards for fitment, performance, and the expectations of E28 and E24 owners.
CSF vs OEM
The original BMW OEM radiator for the E28 M5 and E24 M6 utilizes an aluminum core paired with plastic tanks, a common design choice in the 1980s. However, cooling technology has advanced considerably since then, and modern high-performance vehicles demand more efficient systems to maintain engine integrity and performance. Restorers and enthusiasts recognize the importance of upgrading to components that offer enhanced cooling capabilities and longevity.
The CSF radiator features a 1-Row 31mm aluminum core that significantly improves heat dissipation. Its exclusive B-Tube Technology increases heat transfer by approximately 15% compared to traditional oval welded tubes. Additionally, the radiator includes roughly 35% more cooling fins than the OEM unit, which, combined with the multi-louvered fin design, maximizes airflow and heat rejection. Importantly, this radiator mounts directly in the factory location without any need for cutting or modifications, preserving the vehicle’s original structure and appearance.
Constructed entirely from TIG-welded aluminum, the radiator boasts enhanced structural strength, which translates into improved durability and resistance to the stresses of high-performance driving. This robust construction ensures a long service life, even under demanding conditions.
| Feature | CSF | OEM |
|---|---|---|
| # Core Rows | 1 | 1 |
| # Cooling Tubes | 47 | 45 |
| # Cooling Fin Rows | 48 | 46 |
| Fin Height/Width | 6.5mm |
Unless explicitly stated otherwise, all products sold by R44 Performance Limited are designated RACE ONLY and are solely for competition or off-road use limited to racing formally sanctioned by a recognized racing organization. Any other use, including recreational off-road use, may violate local, state, and Federal laws. R44 Performance Limited does not implicitly or explicitly confirm the legality of using any products it sells on public roads; that is entirely the responsibility of the consumer.
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