Will the later model aluminum rad. fit in place of the brass rad. in the earlier models.

 

What are you calling an "early model"? A 1st gen?

94-98 12 valvers did not come with brass radiators from the factory. 94-02 are all aluminum with plastic tanks. Dodge just quit painting them black in 01.5's and 02's.

 

I guess I just assumed the rad. in my 12v was brass. It sure looks like a 4 core brass rad . The problem I'm having is pulling a trailer it's not bad out on the road but get in stop and go traffic and it gets hot and stays hot. My 24v. never acted like that. It has got me confussed. I put a new clutch in the fan but you don't here it like the 24v. Even in valet mode it gets hot around town. I sure am surprised at the differences of the two trucks. Any help would be appreciated.

 

Your problem isn't the rad, though it may need to be rodded out, and/or the fins cleaned. I'd start there, since the 2 are very inexpensive.

Aluminum rad's won't ultimately dissipate heat any better than a brass rad, but it does respond more quick to temp. changes... There was a very educational post on another board I frequent about the subject from a true pro.

 

Your radiator fins are probably plugged with bugs 'n junk. I see it all the time.
Change the T-stat and blast out the bugs.

 

yea change that thermostat, i did and my 96 runs alot cooler. i bought the updated thermostat from cummins and it made a big difference

 

Put a new thermostat and clutch on fan and no difference. Going to try a mech. temp. gauge as soon as time lets me to see if factory gauge is lying or not.