Pretty much. You might get 2000 miles out of a factory radiator, you might get 20,000. It's almost always the innermost tube, due to vibration.
Braces, yes. Guards just to keep things from hitting them. I've never had a problem with the factory fins on-road.
I called Mylers and they said they will fix it which is alot cheaper then replacing it so if I do that then get the guards and brace wondering if that will prolong the life.
i just picked up some ebay ones for 200. aliexpress has them for US $160.00 | GPI ALUMINUM RADIATOR for HUSQVARNA sm te SMS 630 2011 2012 https://a.aliexpress.com/_dU0qbmu
Now they remembered to weld them together Mine did have one sideplate weld missed when they arrived. After fixing that they have worked just fine.
unfortunately them being thicker has made fan bracket useless. gonna try electric fan mount kit using foam cushions and zipties. worked on my dragcar, should work with this radiator. thankfully all hoses lined up.
the real scoop. these fit hose wise but toss the stock fan bracket. it will not work. I found a work around. use this kit. sold at any auto parts store.
line up fan and push thru the plastic hold tiesto front of radiator. I used the included foam cushions on fan side to properly shim fan. you will have to trim end piece to get up against fan housing. like this: put fan to desired location and push thru plastic hold down rod. should look like this insert locking device. I used some 1" foam trim up against the lock. cut excess off lower shroud mount held by on by the wrap. will not line up. other side yes on bolting up tank sits a little higher causing fitment issues with seat but it is what it is.hope this helps. pictures make it all worth while.
many thanx. I did a 34 mile thrash. all good no leaks. New fan switch worked also. fan came on(finally) thanx guys for all the tech tips. these radiators are a real bargain.
