Radiators

Stock radiators handle cooling well enough for unmodified machines in normal conditions, but add serious power, larger tires that reduce airflow, lift kits that reposition radiators away from optimal airflow, or consistently ride in extreme conditions (desert heat, deep mud that clogs radiators), and suddenly that factory cooling system struggles to keep temperatures safe. Side by Side Source carries a selection of upgraded radiators, radiator relocation kits, and cooling system accessories that address inadequate cooling before overheating causes expensive engine damage, from high-capacity radiators with more cooling surface area to relocation kits that move radiators to protected locations with better airflow.

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Buyer's Guide for UTV Radiators: Helping You Shop!

Understanding When Stock Cooling Just Isn’t Enough

Stock cooling systems are engineered for specific power levels, airflow conditions, and use cases that modifications often exceed. Power upgrades generate more heat. Turbos and superchargers create dramatically higher combustion temperatures, while big-bore kits and aggressive tunes all increase heat production. Stock radiators designed for maybe 80 HP struggle to dissipate heat from 120+ HP. Larger tires reduce airflow through radiators by lowering vehicle speed for a given engine RPM and by physically blocking airflow if they're much taller than stock.

Lift kits and suspension modifications can reposition radiators away from optimal airflow locations or create situations where mud and debris pack against radiators more easily. Riding conditions matter tremendously. Sustained low-speed technical riding provides minimal airflow, deep mud clogs radiator fins, blocking cooling, and extreme ambient temperatures (desert summer at 110°F+) challenge even adequate cooling systems. Symptoms of inadequate cooling include the temperature gauge creeping into the red, coolant boiling over, reduced power (engine pulling timing due to excessive temps), or worst case, engine damage from overheating.

Upgraded UTV Radiator Construction and Capacity

Aftermarket radiators address cooling deficiency through increased surface area, improved construction, and better airflow characteristics. Core thickness increases in heavy-duty radiators. Where stock might be 1-1.25 inches thick, upgraded radiators might be 1.5-2+ inches, providing more coolant volume and surface area for heat dissipation. Row count (single, dual, or triple row) affects capacity. More rows mean more surface area, though there are diminishing returns and airflow concerns with excessively thick cores.

Fin density (fins per inch) affects airflow versus surface area. More fins provide more surface area but restrict airflow more, requiring a balance based on application. And finally, capacity increases of 30-50% over stock are common with quality upgraded radiators. Keep in mind that the airflow level, outside temperatures, and a number of other factors will also affect this.

Side-by-Side Radiator Relocation Kits

Some machines have radiators positioned poorly for protection or cooling, making relocation attractive. Standard radiator positions (typically behind the grille or low in the chassis) expose radiators to rock damage and mud accumulation while providing decent airflow at speed but poor airflow at low speeds. Popular relocation positions include behind the dashboard, under seats, or in bed areas where they're protected but still get reasonable airflow.

Success depends on comprehensive engineering—quality relocation kits address all details, including hose routing, airflow management, and secure mounting. Poorly conceived relocations that look good but restrict airflow or create maintenance nightmares teach expensive lessons. Research thoroughly and choose proven kits with documented results rather than experimental solutions.

UTV Cooling System Supporting Components

Radiators work as part of complete systems, and addressing supporting components often delivers results equal to radiator upgrades. High-pressure radiator caps increase system boiling point by raising pressure. A 0.9 bar (stock) cap allows coolant to boil around 230°F at sea level, while a 1.3 bar cap raises boiling point to 250°F+. This prevents boil-over during extreme conditions. Quality coolant witha proper 50/50 mix provides better heat transfer and boiling point than plain water or improper mixes.

Electric fans or upgraded fan clutches improve airflow at low speeds where cooling is most challenged. Additional fans or more powerful fans move more air through radiators during low-speed technical riding or idling. Auxiliary radiators or oil coolers will target specific heat sources for a more targeted and efficient setup.

3 Top Selling UTV Radiator Brands

SuperATV manufactures heavy-duty radiators and relocation kits engineered for the cooling demands that modified machines create.
DragonFire Racing produces performance cooling components, including upgraded radiator caps and protection systems.
Weller Racing offers specialized radiator solutions designed for race applications requiring maximum cooling.

5 Top Selling UTV Radiator Products

Keep your cooling system pressure where it needs to be with this Polaris Ranger XP 900 Extreme Duty Radiator Cap by DragonFire.
This Heavy-Duty Radiator by SuperATV comes with extra core thickness to meet your cooling needs reliably.
Get the cooling and protection you need in one shot with this Polaris RZR XP 1000 Radiator Relocation Kit by SuperATV.
Race-grade cooling for your Yamaha YXZ1000R comes with this Short Course Radiator with Brackets by Weller Racing, designed specifically for WR Edition race applications.
Prevent radiator hose damage on your Can-Am Maverick with this Front Frame Gusset/Radiator Hose Guard by EMP, protecting vulnerable hoses from rock damage.

Side-by-Side Radiator Frequently Asked Questions

How much cooling capacity increase do I actually need for my modifications?

It depends on the type of mod. More minor modifications should still be okay with a tock radiator, but once you start seriously boosting horsepower or going turbo, you will need larger and more durable radiators.

Does size matter here?

The size of your UTV radiator does matter, but don’t forget about airflow too.

Can’t I just use water instead of coolant?

No, unless it’s an emergency. Water transfers heat slightly better than coolant, but coolant provides critical corrosion inhibitors, prevents freezing, and raises the boiling point through pressure increases that water alone doesn't achieve as effectively.