takovr

My 1986 corvette has a leaking radiator so I decided to replace it. I removed the radiator shroud and removed the old radiator and dropped in the new one. I attached the lower radiator hose and trans cooler line. I then re installed the radiator shroud but it will not go on. I have like a half inch clearance were the bolts go threw. I spent about 6 hours yesterday trying to line up the shroud but it will not go on. What am I doing wrong?

1stVetteFinally

are you 100% sure the new radiator is the same as the old one?

antfarmer2

or the new one came with pads on the bottom and the old ones are still in there.

enventr

you may have to do some trimming

kenmohr

No trimming get the right radiator. Or like antfarmer said

enventr

It maybe too late as he already installed this . Being that he used it they may not take it back unless he can prove that they gave him the wrong radiator

WVZR-1

I'd say that if you're struggling as hard as you say you first post the brand, part number and source of what you've purchased. Comments as to "what to do or maybe" are worthless until it's determined that you've actually purchased product intended for the car.

HAD2HAV2

OP, I purchased an aftermarket radiator 3 years ago and had problems getting the shroud back on. I played around the lower and upper pads. The lower pads looked to set in the correct position but the tops pads gave me a fit. I finally got one side bolted on after an hour and the other went in place after that. Make sure the bottom pads seat correctly first and this may sound crazy but boil some water and dip the top pads in it to get them real soft and push them on top of the radiator then try attaching the shroud.

Roys92BlackRose

I just installed an aftermarket aluminum radiator and all 4 of the rubber mounts had to be trimmed. By your description of your problem, it would seem that the front area of each cushion needs to be cut away, thereby allowing the radiator shroud to move rearward and possibly close the gap. I had a slight gap too but it was only about 1/8".

kenmohr

If it doesn't fit it has to be the wrong radiator. They have to sell him the correct item and if not refund or replace.