big block radiator
Thread Starter
Intermediate
Joined: Jul 2005
Posts: 28
Likes: 0
big block radiator
Hi
I am in need of a new radiator for my 69 4speed AC big block. Needs to look original(ish). What brands and models have members had success with regarding good fit and high quality? Also what to avoid?
thanks
Randy
I am in need of a new radiator for my 69 4speed AC big block. Needs to look original(ish). What brands and models have members had success with regarding good fit and high quality? Also what to avoid?
thanks
Randy
Melting Slicks
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 3,189
Likes: 111
From: Tolland CT
I just installed a DeWitts radiator in my 70 LS5 last weekend. No fitment problems what so ever. Some remarked on how the upper brackets do not hold the radiator as tightly as they did the original, slight difference in tank shape. DeWitts offers new rubber which is molded to fit their tank.
I replaced all the seals while I had the radiator support out, found with new seals the radiator fits pretty snug, no need for new rubber.
I replaced all the seals while I had the radiator support out, found with new seals the radiator fits pretty snug, no need for new rubber.
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Safety Car
Joined: Sep 2005
Posts: 4,222
Likes: 643
From: Orange County Ca
Former Vendor
Joined: Jan 2000
Posts: 5,593
Likes: 631
From: Brighton
Re-coring is always an option but one of the things that is lost in this process is the factory GM top and bottom channels. In the radiator business we call them "hat channels" based on the cut-a-way view. Like this _n_. They also had rectangle and square knock outs which were for hanging the radiator during the painting process. The replacement cores will come with an open U channel and it screams replacement. We do offer correct cores with GM hat channels or your local shop might cut the old ones off and put them on the new core for a few extra bucks.
