Radiator Removal

[Seth G.]

I have an automatic, base engine 71 w/air and have discovered a small leak in my radiator where the side tank meets the core at the lower left hand corner. Although tempted to try JB weld on the seam where the problem is (the radiator is original to a low mile car and I prefer not to disturb it if possible), I think the better route is to remove it and have it repaired by a quality shop. Does anyone know if the hood needs to be removed in order to remove the radiator? Thank you.

[Edward B.]

Re: Radiator Removal

Seth, some people say no and others say yes. I myself like to remove it just so I have more access to everything. While it can be done with the hood still on, it just makes it easier if you remove it.

Ed

[Gene M.]

Re: Radiator Removal

Seth,
I just did this last week on my 68. No, the hood can stay on, not necessary to remove it. The shroud and fan w/ clutch does need to come out. Fairly easy on a c3. Even the radiator hoses can stay if you push them aside.

[Seth G.]

Re: Radiator Removal

Thanks Ed, appreciate it.

[Seth G.]

Re: Radiator Removal

Thanks Gene. Can you walk me through the procedure on removing the shroud? Again, I have an AC car. Appreciate it.

[Bill L.]

Re: Radiator Removal

I found that a second set of hands and yes was a big help in both removing and reinstalling the radiator in my 70. I would also recommend that when you go to reinstall the radiator that you cover both sides with cardboard to protect the core. I prefer not to say how I know on grounds of self incrimination!.

Getting the shroud out can test your patience.


Bill

[Jim T.]

Re: Radiator Removal

Seth look at my long post at the bottom of these posts for 1970 Corvette. My long post is there on removal of my 1970's radiator with out removing my hood. I would do it the same again.

[Larry M.]

Re: Radiator Removal

Seth,

I've had my radiator out four times, 1972 350, 4spd, no air. The last two times were the easiest, when I removed the hood, and then the radiator, shroud and support as an assembly (after first removing the fan blade).

However, with AC and an automatic (and I believe you have a metal shroud; not plastic like mine), your situation isn't exactly like mine; so what worked for me may not be the ideal method for you.

Good luck with whichever path you take.

Larry

[Dan A.]

Re: Radiator Removal

I have used Jim's method of moving the passenger side upper A arm out of the way and it worked well on my 69 with A/C. It was the easiest way I found to get the shroud out in one piece.

[Richard M.]

Re: Radiator Removal

Seth, The radiator is a stacked plate aluminum? If it is, it likely cannot be repaired successfully. It will save you from doing the entire job over, and over again, if you replace it with a quality reproduction from Dewitt's.

I only say this because I had much pain trying to salvage a aluminum rad. My escapade here......
https://www.forums.ncrs.org/showthre...552#post319552

I had it repaired twice, and retested. Every time I retested it, new leaks popped out at the side tank areas. $90 for the rad, $50 in repairs. It is now a $140 wall hanging.

Rich