Intercooler vs. Radiator

Intercoolers and radiators are both heat exchangers found in vehicles, especially diesel trucks but they serve very different purposes. Here's a clear comparison:

Intercooler vs. Radiator: What's the Difference?

Feature Intercooler Radiator
Primary Function Cools compressed air from the turbocharger before it enters the engine. Cools engine coolant to remove heat from the engine block.
Element Being Cooled Turbo Air (intake/ charge air). Coolant (liquid).
Heat Source Heat from turbo compression. Heat from engine combustion.
Cooling Medium Ambient airflow. Ambient airflow.
Type of Heat Exchanger Air-to-air. Liquid-to-air.
Location Between turbocharger and intake manifold. Connected to engine coolant circuit.
Used In Turbocharged heavy duty truck diesel engines. All internal combustion engines.

Remember:

  • The intercooler cools air for combustion.
  • The radiator cools coolant for engine temperature.

Dura-Lite has over 700 different Intercooler and Radiator products available, for same day shipping (when ordered before the cut off time), for purchase online.

Intercooler Catalog

Radiator Catalog

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