Had opportunity this week to install the new radiator and not before time. Judging by the date stamp, I have removed the original radiator. As you can see the old one is seriously damaged although not leaking.
The new radiator temperatures are Water in 88°c, Water out 55°c, Transmission fluid line (upper) 40°c. Air temperature 18°c. The radiator fan switches on more frequently at low speed but this probably means it is working properly.

Hi

the gap in the radiator I think had been put there so if you have a bump the radiator will bend and twist, with out bursting

now you've reinforced it odds are it would just rip it self apart

new radiator going to last 10 years plus even with out been reinforced, toyed with the idea with my new radiator, but ended leaving it as it was designed, there must be a reason it was done

cheers

Joe