Hello new to this chat. I have a 1973 Dodge Charger SE Brougham, and I need a bigger radiator. I have looked and the one I have has three out let on the pass side. two on the top and one on the bottom. I am wondering as I cannot find a 4 core with this set up if there is any other place that the heater return hose can go? Joyce Bell
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Hi haynurse8, beautiful car. But the name is the best thing that you got going for it. Like our beloved football team here in Los Angeles. We love us some Chargers. Now I know nothing about cars and I am no where qualified to answer your question but here is Grock's response(AI on X's): For your 1973 Dodge Charger SE Brougham, upgrading to a bigger radiator while maintaining compatibility with the specific three-outlet configuration (two on top, one on the bottom, all on the passenger side) can be tricky, especially since you're looking for a 4-core option. The heater return hose, which typically connects to one of these outlets, is part of the challenge. Let’s break this down and explore your options.
The original radiator setup on many 1973 Chargers, particularly with big block engines like the 400 or 440 (common in the SE Brougham), often featured this passenger-side outlet configuration to accommodate the engine bay layout and hose routing. The heater return hose usually connects to one of the top outlets or the bottom one, depending on the specific plumbing design, to cycle coolant back from the heater core to the radiator. If you can’t find a 4-core radiator with this exact setup, relocating the heater return hose is indeed possible, though it requires some adaptation.
One practical alternative is to reroute the heater return hose to the water pump or intake manifold instead of the radiator. Many Mopar engines, including those in your Charger’s era, have provisions for heater hose fittings on the water pump or intake manifold. Here’s how you could approach it:
Water Pump Connection: Check your water pump for a threaded port (often 1/2" NPT). You can install a fitting here (like a 1/2" NPT to 5/8" or 3/4" hose barb, depending on your hose size) and run the heater return hose to it. This is a common mod when upgrading radiators that lack the original outlet configuration. It keeps the coolant flowing back into the system efficiently.
Intake Manifold Option: If your intake manifold has a coolant passage with a fitting (some big block Mopar intakes do), you could tap into that instead. This might require a custom fitting or adapter, but it’s another viable spot for the heater return.
Radiator Modification: If you’re set on a 4-core radiator that doesn’t have the third outlet, you could have a radiator shop add one. A skilled shop can weld an additional outlet onto an aluminum or brass/copper radiator, matching your original specs. This might be pricier but keeps the stock routing intact.
Bypass the Radiator Outlet: Another option is to use a radiator with only two outlets (inlet and outlet) and run the heater return through a bypass setup. You’d connect the heater return to a T-fitting spliced into the lower radiator hose or directly to the engine block’s coolant return path, though this might slightly alter coolant flow dynamics.
For the radiator itself, since the exact 4-core with three passenger-side outlets is elusive, look at aftermarket options like those from Champion, Be Cool, or KUUHLERSAT, which offer 3- or 4-row aluminum radiators for Mopar B-bodies. Many of these are designed for 1973 Chargers but might have the inlet and outlet on opposite sides (e.g., inlet on passenger side, outlet on driver side). If you go this route, confirm the core dimensions (typically around 26-28" wide by 17-19" tall for a Charger) and adapt your hoses accordingly. A universal 4-core radiator could also work if you’re willing to fabricate mounts and reroute hoses.
Before proceeding, double-check your current radiator’s outlet sizes (e.g., 1-1/2" or 1-3/4") and hose diameters to ensure compatibility with any new setup. Also, consider whether your Charger has A/C, as that might affect clearance and fan shroud requirements with a thicker 4-core.
In summary, yes, you can relocate the heater return hose to the water pump or intake manifold if a 4-core radiator with your exact outlet setup isn’t available. The water pump is likely the simplest and most common alternative. Just ensure proper hose routing to avoid kinks or heat exposure, and you’ll maintain good coolant circulation while upgrading your cooling capacity. If you’re handy with fabrication, this should be straightforward; otherwise, a local radiator or hot rod shop can assist. What engine do you have in there? That might help narrow down the best radiator options too.
The 1973 Chargers were pretty brutal as they finished 2–11–1 when the radiator of Johnny Units was ultimately replaced with 4 core rookie Dan Fouts. If you’re looking for a place the return hose can go, look no further than Sofi Stadium, and the new Chargers radiator of Justin Herbert for all your Charger needs.