
Item no: 261007
The all-aluminum radiator for the VW Golf 2 was developed without compromise for use under extreme thermal conditions. Especially with popular performance conversions like the Golf 2 VR6 or Golf 2 VR6 Turbo, the Golf 2’s stock cooling system reaches its physical limits extremely quickly. The cramped engine compartment, the enormous heat generated by the six-cylinder engine, and—in the case of a turbocharger—the additional heat from the exhaust gas turbocharger result in massive heat buildup.
This high-performance radiator replaces the stock plastic/aluminum radiator with a fully welded aluminum construction. It provides the essential cooling reserve that a performance-tuned Golf 2 VR6 or Turbo needs to reliably prevent heat-related power losses or serious engine damage.
Thermal relief for significant performance increases: A classic VR6 conversion in a lightweight Golf 2 places constant strain on the cooling system. A turbocharger generates additional heat in the engine compartment. The 42 mm-thick all-aluminum radiator ensures drastically accelerated heat dissipation.
Pressure stability under full load: Increased boost pressures and higher flow rates in the cooling system often cause older, vulnerable OEM radiators to burst or develop leaks at the sealing surfaces of the plastic housings. TIG-welded aluminum water blocks can permanently withstand even higher system pressures.
Consistently low coolant temperatures: Prevents the coolant from “boiling” during high-speed stretches on the highway or during spirited driving at track days.
Material & Durability (All-aluminum vs. Plastic):
OEM: Plastic side water tanks that, over the years, become brittle due to constant temperature fluctuations, develop hairline cracks, and start to leak.
Aluminum Upgrade: Fully TIG-welded aluminum construction. Absolutely dimensionally stable, resistant to aging, and designed for demanding motorsports and turbo applications.
Cooling Capacity & Radiator Geometry:
OEM: Thinner standard radiator with limited cooling capacity – designed for production-spec 4-cylinder engines, but completely undersized for a VR6 conversion in terms of thermal capacity.
Aluminum Upgrade: Specially sized 42 mm high-performance radiator with increased fin density and optimized water flow for maximum efficiency.
Overall dimensions: Length 760 mm × Height 400 mm × Depth 42 mm
Radiator Dimensions (Heat Sink): Length 620 mm × Height 345 mm × Depth 42 mm
Material: 100 % aluminum (high-quality construction, TIG-welded)
Connections: Precisely fitting connections
VW Golf 2 (and Jetta 2)
Special recommendation: Absolutely essential equipment for all Golf 2 VR6 and VR6 Turbo conversions, as well as highly tuned 1.6L / 1.8L 16V Turbo projects in the Golf 2.
To optimally relieve thermal stress when the vehicle is stationary and in tight spaces within the engine compartment, we recommend:
Motorsport fan (slim, low-profile design for maximum space efficiency with intercooler piping and engine swaps)
Fan mounting kit (for vibration-free and secure mounting directly to the radiator grille)