1969 L88 radiator

[J W.]

Does anyone know if the DeWitts 3007436 reproduction L88 radiator would pass judging?

[Joe R.]

Re: 1969 L88 radiator

The DeWitt Radiators both SB and BB aluminum have several issues including the date being engraved instead of stamped. My largest issue is the fact that they have been sanded smooth where the original radiators are rough on the top and bottom from the holding fixtures when they were made.
However, most NCRS judges will not deduct for a Dewitt Radiator but will kick up a fuss over a Restoration Battery.

JR

[Joe L.]

Re: 1969 L88 radiator

Does anyone know if the DeWitts 3007436 reproduction L88 radiator would pass judging?

Michael------

Whether the DeWitts radiator will or will not receive full judging credit is practically irrelevant. Other than NOS, the DeWitts radiator is the only game in town.

By the way, not all 1969 L-88's used the 3007436 radiator. Those with THM-400 transmissions used the GM #3019190.

[J W.]

Re: 1969 L88 radiator

Thanks Joe and Joe

it is relevant to my situation because I have a functional but fairly beat up original radiator that I don't think can be restored since it doesn't have side tanks. So, would it be better to keep the rough original or replace with a new DeWitts? I don't know the answer...

[Joe L.]

Re: 1969 L88 radiator

Thanks Joe and Joe

it is relevant to my situation because I have a functional but fairly beat up original radiator that I don't think can be restored since it doesn't have side tanks. So, would it be better to keep the rough original or replace with a new DeWitts? I don't know the answer...

Michael------

Well, that's a tough call. It all depends on just how bad the original is. However, if it leaks, I'd say the best approach is to get a new DeWitts. And, if it doesn't leak, it probably soon will.

[Tom R.]

Re: 1969 L88 radiator

it is relevant to my situation because I have a functional but fairly beat up original radiator that I don't think can be restored since it doesn't have side tanks. So, would it be better to keep the rough original or replace with a new DeWitts? I don't know the answer...

And there is always the trade-off between condition versus original points. With a service replacement...you lose on one or more of the five elements of originality while with original unit with condition issues...well you lose on condition. It sounds like the issues with the DeWitts is both configuration and date format which could translate to 40% of originality while getting full on condition. Follow the same logic and apply it to your original unit where is would score 100% original but than what % would it lose on condition?

[Wayne M.]

Re: 1969 L88 radiator

The DeWitt Radiators both SB and BB aluminum have several issues including the date being engraved instead of stamped. My largest issue is the fact that they have been sanded smooth where the original radiators are rough on the top and bottom from the holding fixtures when they were made.
However, most NCRS judges will not deduct for a Dewitt Radiator but will kick up a fuss over a Restoration Battery.

JR

Was I dreaming or does DeWitt accept the old rad, and remove and incorporate the top plate with its correct (stamped numbers) and surface imperfections into their new repro (depending on condition, of course).

[Leif A.]

Re: 1969 L88 radiator

Was I dreaming or does DeWitt accept the old rad, and remove and incorporate the top plate with its correct (stamped numbers) and surface imperfections into their new repro (depending on condition, of course).

Wayne,

Here's hoping Tom DeWitt chimes in...good question.

Leif