69 L46 copper radiator petcock

[Richard R.]

Ready to put my radiator in (69 L46, no air, 4 speed) and I'm doing last checks on it by re-reading the tech manual and see where my re-cored original has a straight drain plug (pic below). The tech manual says most bottom drain rads have a 90 degree elbow with brass hex head plug. Did any come the way mine is pictured or can I conclude this was modified over the years and I should source a 90 degree plug for it?

Thanks much,

Rich

[Terry M.]

Re: 69 L46 copper radiator petcock

Ready to put my radiator in (69 L46, no air, 4 speed) and I'm doing last checks on it by re-reading the tech manual and see where my re-cored original has a straight drain plug (pic below). The tech manual says most bottom drain rads have a 90 degree elbow with brass hex head plug. Did any come the way mine is pictured or can I conclude this was modified over the years and I should source a 90 degree plug for it?

Thanks much,

Rich

I am pretty sure you should have the 90* fitting with the brass hex plug. The problem with that configuration, if you are able to find the correct pieces, is draining the radiator through that without breaking it off is next to impossible. The next option for fluid draining is the lower radiator hose, and that IS impossible due to no room. The only "safe" way to drain the coolant is the cylinder case drains and those can be difficult if they have not been used in a while.

My advice, is you ever intend to drain the coolant, is to live with what you have. It is the most practical and functional solution.

[Patrick B.]

[Terry M.]

Re: 69 L46 copper radiator petcock

Pat,
To my above post I should have added the question: "Ask me how I know?"

Been there and done that. We are the voices of experience.

[Richard R.]

[Gary C.]

Re: 69 L46 copper radiator petcock

Rich,
The trick I use on my cars with the 90 deg fitting and plug is to brace the 90 deg fitting to the framework using a deep socket that barely fits the space on whichever side I am doing (right side to untorque off, left side to torque on) so when I torque the plug off and on, the 90 deg fitting bears up against the socket which bears up against the framework thereby eliminating the torque on the brazed fitting on radiator and potential of ripping the fitting out of radiator. Each time I try this without the "spacer", I can see the fitting taking all the torque load (not good).
Gary