1976 Radiator Core replacement
Thread Starter
Intermediate
Joined: Aug 2007
Posts: 33
Likes: 0
From: Sierra Vista AZ
1976 Radiator Core replacement
CF Team,
I just got my '76 L82 w/AC, 4 Speed, out of storage, and came to the realization that I need a new radiator (its original) and core support. From the collective smart folks in the forums, does it matter whether I get an 76E or 76L core support if I plan on going with an aftermarket Alumn. Radiator and electric fan set up? If it does, then what is the easiest way to determine which core support I need? Can this be determined by VIN? Given that I plan on going to an aluminum radiator and electric fan set up, are the upper fan shroud brackets even required? I am looking around for all the metal bits and want to make sure I do not purchase the wrong stuff. I know this may seem trivial, but any assistance would be greatly appreciated.
Cheers,
JR
I just got my '76 L82 w/AC, 4 Speed, out of storage, and came to the realization that I need a new radiator (its original) and core support. From the collective smart folks in the forums, does it matter whether I get an 76E or 76L core support if I plan on going with an aftermarket Alumn. Radiator and electric fan set up? If it does, then what is the easiest way to determine which core support I need? Can this be determined by VIN? Given that I plan on going to an aluminum radiator and electric fan set up, are the upper fan shroud brackets even required? I am looking around for all the metal bits and want to make sure I do not purchase the wrong stuff. I know this may seem trivial, but any assistance would be greatly appreciated.
Cheers,
JR
Thread Starter
Intermediate
Joined: Aug 2007
Posts: 33
Likes: 0
From: Sierra Vista AZ
@Peterbuilt Thanks much, it seems by the graphics that you provided that I have a 76L core support. I just wonder if it will even matter, if I am not replacing the stock radiator, fan, or shroud?
Team Owner
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 37,637
Likes: 3,118
From: Crossville TN
The later core support will offer more ways to attach shroud, seals, and radiator than the early version. If you are needing to buy the aluminum radiator on a 'budget', you might check out Champion radiators. If you have A/C, buy a 3 or 4 row core; and if you have any auto tranny, get one with the side cooling tank for auto trans cars.
Had a 1976 L-82, 4-sp
Joined: Mar 2011
Posts: 5,338
Likes: 1,213
From: Some days your the dog and some days your the hydrant.
Royal Canadian Navy
Newer design radiators for high performance and/or a/c normally only use two rows of 1-1/4" tubes. No need for 3 or 4 row rads anymore if they are aluminium. I have a Cold Case rad in my early '76. It was a direct fit and works fine with the oem clutch mechanical 7-blade fan. I didn't go with electric fans. Imo, no benefit whatsoever for the cost.
