{"product_id":"trq-radiator-assembly-plastic-tank-aluminum-core-compatible-with-ford","title":"TRQ Radiator Assembly Plastic Tank Aluminum Core Compatible With Ford","description":"\u003cp\u003eIn this review the TRQ Radiator Assembly is evaluated for classic Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles where a direct replacement radiator is needed. The bottom line: this radiator is aimed at DIY owners and mechanics who want a straightforward, pre-assembled direct-fit unit that mirrors OEM layout and simplifies installation. It stands out for its compatibility across many 1980s and early 1990s models and for offering a no-modification swap, making it a practical choice when replacing a failed or leaking original radiator.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eKey Features\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDirect fit compatibility:\u003c\/strong\u003e Designed to match the factory dimensions and mounting points for a range of 1980-93 Ford, Lincoln and Mercury models to reduce installation time and the need for alterations.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePlastic tank, aluminum core:\u003c\/strong\u003e Combines a lightweight plastic tank with a durable aluminum core to provide effective heat dissipation while keeping weight and cost down.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003ePre-assembled unit:\u003c\/strong\u003e Delivered as a complete assembly so technicians and DIYers can replace the radiator without sourcing separate components or performing complex assembly.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eWide model coverage:\u003c\/strong\u003e Fits multiple specific applications including Mustang, Thunderbird, Lincoln Mark VII, Continental and several LTD and Cougar configurations for standard cooling systems.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eReference numbers provided:\u003c\/strong\u003e Includes part references such as 8010556, 138, 556, CU138 and CU556 to help confirm compatibility with existing service documents and parts lists.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eWho It's For\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis radiator is a sensible buy for owners of 1980 through 1993 Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles who need a like-for-like replacement for the standard cooling setup. It suits DIY mechanics who prefer a part that is ready to install, and independent shops replacing aging radiators in classic models where original equipment geometry is required.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThose who should look elsewhere include owners of vehicles with nonstandard cooling upgrades or modified engine bays, and anyone who requires a pure OEM-branded part for factory warranty reasons. Also consider alternatives if recurring tank cracking or persistent leakage is a primary concern for your specific vehicle history.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003ePros \u0026amp; Cons\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePros\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGood fitment for many classic Ford\/Lincoln\/Mercury models, reducing installation adjustments.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePre-assembled plastic tank and aluminum core saves time and simplifies the swap.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCustomers report solid value for money and that the assembly lines up well with original mounting points.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCons\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSome users have reported occasional leakage or a cracked tank, so long-term durability may vary by use and installation care.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eSpecifications\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eBrand\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTRQ\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eCore material\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eAluminum core\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eTank material\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePlastic tank\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eReference numbers\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e8010556, 138, 556, CU138, CU556\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eCompatibility\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSelected 1980-93 Ford, Lincoln, Mercury models with standard cooling\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFitment type\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eDirect fit, pre-assembled\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eOur Verdict\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe TRQ Radiator Assembly is a practical, cost-conscious replacement for owners of compatible 1980s and early 1990s Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles who need a direct-fit, pre-assembled unit. It delivers good value and simplifies installation, though buyers should be aware of mixed reports on long-term tank durability and inspect for leaks after installation. Overall, it is a strong option when you want a straightforward swap without custom work.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs this radiator a direct replacement for classic Mustang models?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eYes, it is listed as compatible with 1980-93 Ford Mustang models that use the standard cooling setup and is intended as a direct fit replacement.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat materials are used in the construction?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe assembly pairs a plastic tank with an aluminum core to balance weight, cooling performance and cost.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAre there known issues to watch for after installation?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSome customers report good long-term performance while others mention leakage or a cracked tank, so after installation check all connections and monitor for leaks during the first heat cycles.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"TRQ","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48637352607963,"sku":"B077J8RDBM","price":124.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0724\/1043\/1707\/files\/81dLzIIb9VL._AC_SL1500.jpg?v=1778561029","url":"https:\/\/gearmusthave.com\/products\/trq-radiator-assembly-plastic-tank-aluminum-core-compatible-with-ford","provider":"GearMustHave","version":"1.0","type":"link"}