Mitsubishi Repair: Radiator, automatic transmission fluid, mitsubishi eclipse

Question
1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse RS Five Speed Manual 2.0L. What is the difference between a universal radiator and a radiator specifically for a manual transmission?  What kind would you recommend for this vehicle.  If I would like to buy an aftermarket radiator, what kind (size, brand) would you recommend?
Thanks

Answer
Ann,
There are actually very few manufacturers of radiators.  Just a few months ago, I had to get a new radiator for my 1990 Eclipse (manual transmission).  I had first inquired the price of a new radiator directly from Mitsubishi, but they wanted several hundred dollars.  So I decided to purchase a universal radiator.  There were some good offers for new radiators on eBay for about $100.  When I got the new universal radiator, it was nearly identical to my original radiator.  The only difference were there were more mounting brackets and there was an inlet and outlet nozzles for automatic transmission fluid cooling.

The extra mounting brackets didn't make a difference.  And I simply plugged up the inlet and outlet nozzles since I didn't need them because I didn't have an auto transmission.

So, you can buy with confidence if you went with a universal radiator.  Though where ever you order if from, you'll need to give your car's specifics (year, make, model, engine size) so you get the correct size.  Just tell the place you order it from the same information you gave me [1999 Mitsubishi Eclipse RS Five Speed Manual 2.0L], and they will be sure you get you the correct size radiator.  And as I mentioned earlier, most radiators are made by the same manufacturer so the brand itself doesn't really matter.  Just be sure to tell them the specifics they ask of your car so you get the correct radiator with the accurate dimensions.
Good luck!