1969 Radiator Seals

[Michael C.]

I've read several previous posts on this topic, but I'm still unsure as to what I should be attempting regarding the seals. Months ago I removed the fan, water pump and shroud. After removing the hood, I removed the radiator, support assembly and condenser (still bolted together).

I have a 69 390 with A/C. The photo shows what I think might be the correct placement of the top seals (from Doc Rebuild) on the support assembly and the shroud. The adhesive backing is still in place until I'm sure of the correct locations.

This seems to be the only placement that will allow the upper center bracket to mate between the support and the shroud. If this placement isn't correct, please advise. This is a new DeWitt radiator and matches the old rad. regarding dimensions, configuration, etc. I believe the shroud is original to the car - it has the AIM part number.

Thanks,
Mike

[Terry M.]

Re: 1969 Radiator Seals

I need a farther back photo.
Are you trying to place one seal in front of the other? If so that is not the way it was done.

Is the seal for across the radiator one piece or three pieces?

Early 1969 or later production?

Have you looked in the AIM?

[Gary H.]

Re: 1969 Radiator Seals

Here are pics from my july 69 427/390 AC car.

Sorry I couldnt use the flash...phone battery almost dead.

Gary

20130906_213558.jpg
20130906_213457.jpg

[Robert N.]

Re: 1969 Radiator Seals

Mike,

Check the AIM, in options L36, B5, p 378. The air dam seal attaches to the radiator support, not the radiator (3966392, Seal-Supt to hood). Make sure you are not using the lower shroud seal for the air dam, there are separate P/Ns from Doc for the shroud and air dam. Also, the shape of the air dam seal changed during the model year, so make sure you have the correct one

Robert

[Robert N.]

Re: 1969 Radiator Seals

Taking a second look, the seal needs to go lower between the front of the radiator and the radiator support.

[Michael C.]

Re: 1969 Radiator Seals

Mine is a July 69 product. I'm addressing the seals for the radiator support and the shroud, not the air dam. I've attached a couple of other photos with notes to try to clarify my issue/concerns. I want to be sure I'm attempting to attach the seals in the proper locations.

The seal on the support aligns with the PIF holes, so I assume it's where it should be. Provides proper clearance for the left and right top support brackets and the upper center bracket.

Gary's photo appears to be what I think is correct.

Looks like some serious compression is required.

Thanks everyone.

[Robert N.]

Re: 1969 Radiator Seals

Mike,

i did my 69 BB no A/C a few months ago. What worked for me was to get the shroud roughly in place, then hook the radiator on the bottom cradles, compressing the lower gasket. You then get some leverage to compress the side and top seals, pushing the top of the radiator forward until you can get the top cradles in place. Then connect the shroud.

Good luck!

[Terry M.]

Re: 1969 Radiator Seals

I think Bob has the right idea -- I must add, however, my experience is with old hardened seals that have already taken a "set."

[Michael C.]

Re: 1969 Radiator Seals

I assume my proposed positioning of the seals is correct, so I'll proceed. I appreciate the "good luck!" I'm sure I'll need it.