Lots of (most?) modern automotive radiators have plastic tanks (on the
ends of the core).  There ARE plastics that will survive the temps and
pressures...


Matt-

Yes but they are troublesome. It is automotive practice to use
a 15 psi radiator cap but most rotary powered aircraft are now using 30 psi caps.
I see no advantage in plastic over aluminum for aircraft use.

My local BMW expert says for reliability purposes replace the plastice
radiators every two years.  I had two fail in a six year period.

Hans

Hans; the big thrill is when the tank on the heater core blows apart as you
are sitting there just idling in traffic. I have had that happen with two
'beamers.' I don't know whether their plastic tank is worse than anyone
else; but, I do still know that I have had to replace several of their
radiators as well. Maybe Europeans just don't make as good a plastic as Matt
wants; but, while I joke about using pvc and/or glass almost anywhere, off
the ground, in a pressurized situation in an engine compartment is just not
going to be it, for me, anyway.
jofarr, soddy tn



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