So now that i finally got 'er turned over (moisture got into the modulator and blew the resin out in a winter cold snap), the rad cracked and i delved into a whole new mess....

Turns out the guy who owned it before me put in a (spectra rad part#)cu558 radiator meant for trucks with a/c. i cant find a copper brass 558 and the newer plastic/ aluminum 558s dont fit the old style mounting brackets. But my truck doesnt have a/c so then i should be using a cu557 radiator and just replace the upper hose and the fan shroud. I also learned along the way that my truck is a VIN "Y"

I have (March) 1984 f250, 4.9L 6L base model 4x4. carb

my questions to the pros (uh, thats you!):

Should i really be using the smaller rad?

Do i need the fan shroud for the smaller rad, given that the fan blades pretty much span the rad cooling surface? ;

does having the bigger rad make a difference?;

What is the difference between the VIN "Y" and "9" ?

I wonder if i should say my truck is an '83 because the 83 and early 84 engines were the same then they changed the water pump configuration (at least) later for (i think) late '84s and '85s. plus i have the old style tailgate ford changed around then too. any input to confirm or deny my suspicions is appreciated.

thanks

 

Ford is famous for making running changes mid-year. Do what you have to do at the parts store to get the right parts.

The radiator is like everything else, it depends on what you are going to do with the truck. Lots of heavy towing up long hills will require a larger radiator and the fan shroud also. If you do not do much of that, the smaller radiator will work fine. If it gets hot in town, you will have to get the shroud.

 

Regarding the difference between VIN "Y" and "9"... I believe Y was the "normal" = gasoline/carbureted and there was an optional propane version.