Radiator for Big Block
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Heel & Toe
Joined: Jan 2018
Posts: 16
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Radiator for Big Block
Where can you get a OEM style radiator for a '71 Corvette with a 454. Mine has a aftermarket aluminum radiator that doesn't even fit the car. Someone just stuffed it in and didn't even bolt it down. It's too big for the mounts and is rubbing the frame rails. It's only a matter of time before it rubs a hole in the tank. Just want to go back stock with one that actually fits.
Safety Car
Joined: Sep 2011
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From: Madeira Beach, FL
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I'd check with Wilcox here on the forum in the WTB parts section or call him directly.
He has allot of nice original stuff and probably has a reproduction that will fit better than the cobbled together one in there now.
Marshal
He has allot of nice original stuff and probably has a reproduction that will fit better than the cobbled together one in there now.
Marshal
Le Mans Master
Joined: May 2003
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From: Fernandina Beach FL
2023 Restomod of the Year finalist
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Where can you get a OEM style radiator for a '71 Corvette with a 454. Mine has a aftermarket aluminum radiator that doesn't even fit the car. Someone just stuffed it in and didn't even bolt it down. It's too big for the mounts and is rubbing the frame rails. It's only a matter of time before it rubs a hole in the tank. Just want to go back stock with one that actually fits.
I have a 71 BB and it fits perfect-the top supports fit without an issue- the bolts line right up.
The original hoses fit without an issue-
https://www.dewitts.com/collections/...minum-radiator
Really nicely made- in the USA.
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Le Mans Master
Joined: May 2006
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From: League City Tx
Dewitts.... The only way to go.
I have one in my 71' 454, my dad's 65' 396/425hp, and a 66' L79. The C2s we had Dewitts paint them black and do the repro oem stickers etc.
Great quality, oem fit and work perfect. Spend the money once.
I have one in my 71' 454, my dad's 65' 396/425hp, and a 66' L79. The C2s we had Dewitts paint them black and do the repro oem stickers etc.
Great quality, oem fit and work perfect. Spend the money once.
Safety Car
Joined: Oct 2007
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From: Austin Texas
Corvette of the Year Winner 2017
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make sure you have the wider core support to match the radiator.
Also be sure to have the same width shroud and use it, with the seals.
I run the wide 27.5" stock type replacement radiator and that cools my BB 180 rock solid.
Also be sure to have the same width shroud and use it, with the seals.
I run the wide 27.5" stock type replacement radiator and that cools my BB 180 rock solid.
Last edited by 69Vett; Mar 5, 2018 at 09:39 AM.
Burning Brakes
Joined: Sep 2005
Posts: 769
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From: Goose Creek SC
Dusty older photo of a DeWitts installed in my '68 with a 454. Also a tiny peak at the end of a McJack shorty header. Both products, not cheap, but worth the bucks if you want non OEM stuff to fit well. I am one of those guys who generally prefers OEM, not just for originality because IMO in the majority of cases OEM is better than aftermarket. However, here are two instances when that really isn't the case. Same goes for the Lunati full roller in the engine. Sometimes modern is just better.
