E30 Cab Radiator Question

[bexwoods]

Hi all, please forgive me if this is a really naive question, I’m still learning!

The rad on my 325i was corroded so I’ve brought a replacement, a Nissens one as could afford the £450 bill from beemer.
It arrived as I assumed damaged but the supplier are saying the below ‘cuts’ on the top and bottom of the rad are intentional to stop bowing... anyone know if that is that BS or reality?

6C9BF197-0949-4B81-A86B-8D241CD2A488.jpeg

938B5D02-4E9D-4F70-A63B-2103DEE2931A.jpeg

[HenryM3]

I have not seen this before just been out and looked at the new VW rad I’ve fitted an there’s no cuts, none on the m3 radiator either. Not saying it’s wrong as there my be some new technology/thinking behind the cuts. Maybe look up your rad on eBay/Amazon and see if there is any visible cuts like that. Perhaps someone who has recently fitted that make will chime in.

[bexwoods]

I have not seen this before just been out and looked at the new VW rad I’ve fitted an there’s no cuts, none on the m3 radiator either. Not saying it’s wrong as there my be some new technology/thinking behind the cuts. Maybe look up your rad on eBay/Amazon and see if there is any visible cuts like that. Perhaps someone who has recently fitted that make will chime in.

Thank you. All the images are the ‘blueprint’ style rather than physical images :/
I’ve googled it and it seems to be a thing that is done to help prevent bowing when hot.

[HenryM3]

If your research has made you feel confident that all is okay then go for it and fit. I’m sure it must come with some sort of warranty so make sure you keep the receipt in a safe place.

[martauto]

It has been done for a reason of which I know nothing about but remember that it costs them to do this so maybe it`s something of a benefit ??

Mart.

[biffer]

My Nissens pre-facelift 325 rad that i got recently didn't have this feature, but looking at the pic. that cut looks intentional rather than any sort of damage.

[bexwoods]

Thanks all... think we’ll give it a go.