Aluminum radiator for 1946

46yblock · #1 (**permalink**) 04-05-2008, 05:45 PM

Does anyone know a good source for an affordable aluminum radiator? By affordable I mean below $350. I would like it to be smaller than the original, not sticking above the shroud that has the hood latch recepticle. My frame still has the original corners that the flatties mounted to, so location of the lower outlet is pretty important, unless I can raise the smaller radiator up to clear the frame members. Any ideas?

3Mike6 · #2 (**permalink**) 04-21-2008, 10:40 PM

Try these guys, y0u may have to call them if it's not listed, but i hear good things about them easrlier this month.

CGJ

46yblock · #3 (**permalink**) 04-21-2008, 11:08 PM

Thanks for the link. I will contact them.

Several things keep bouncing around in my head as possibilities. One is an early model Mustang radiator and the other is one of the universal cross flows offered by Jegs. Either one would require some mod to the mounting frame, like narrowing the mounting flange, and also raising it above the line of the fender. Either the Jegs or Mustang would have to be raised up, and the space underneath filled with an aluminum sheet to block air.

There will be some new pics in my gallery of the current radiator, radiator mounting frame and a Jegs universal rad if anyone wants to take a look.

Edit: I couldnt get the pics to go.

46yblock · #4 (**permalink**) 07-08-2008, 02:07 AM

I finally have dived into the deep end and bought a Race Pro cross flow aluminum radiator,universal, 2 1 inch rows, 22 inch wide by 19 tall. It looks good, maybe. Mounting should work out with the welder. The problem, if there is one will be getting the lower radiator hose to the water pump. An initial fitting looks like it will be possible. Clearance for the Air Vintiques fan isnt there. only 3 inches.. A 15 inch, and maybe 16 inch water pump mounted fan could work out. Limitation being the lower radiator hose.

The plan at this point is to weld an L bracket to each of the side tanks lining up with the radiator frame. Radiator will be supported from underneath with 3/4 inch neoprene. I checked the radiator high point vs. intake manifold high, and the motor isnt above the rad.

Also have on order a radiator overflow tank. Is mounting height and issue for the top of the expansion tank?

Sure hope it all works.

The new rad is 14 lbs and the old is 34 lbs with elect. fan.