Ready Rads
The recore and reconditioning specialist
Ready Rads is based in the centre of Birmingham and specialises in the repair, reconditioning and replacement of radiators. As well as the traditional copper and brass radiators fitted to most older cars, the firm can also tackle the plastic and aluminium types fitted to more modern classics.
When faced with the ruined remains of the radiator from our Austin Westminster A105 Estate project (see page 108),Ready Rads was completely unfazed. Time was ticking, with the PC Restoration & Classic Car Show only a fortnight away, but a week later we had a call to collect the beautifully refurbished unit. Technician Mauricio had worked magic. Cracked pipes had been resoldered, the fragile core had been replaced and the whole lot finished in a fetching shade of satin black – all in time for the car’s starring stage role.
As well as radiators, Ready Rads has branched out into oil coolers, heat exchangers, air conditioning condensers, receiver dryers, and heater matrixes – basically, anything with fins.
General manager Dave Rhodes says: ‘We trade on quality and have a strong customer base built on personal recommendation. We are classic enthusiasts ourselves and we know that these cars have a habit of hiding how bad things really are – that’s why we are happy to clean and pressure test a radiator that comes in to us before quoting free of charge. We also offer a local collection and delivery service.’
All the radiators that come through are bead blasted and pressure tested before and after work to ensure a quality product. A standard classic radiator is generally turned around within seven working days. Vintage radiators take a little longer, but they can be fitted with handmade cell cores – the results are truly stunning.
It’s clear that these chaps know what they’re doing, and it’s great to discover there are still specialists around that can repair rather than replace, meaning irreplaceable or expensive parts get a second lease of life and allow the cars they come from to stay on the road.