Now that it dropped down in to minus double digits my radiator started leaking at the top seam (side opposite the cap). I called the radiator shop and they said it is common with older fords. They said the gasket shrinks. They said it is an easy fix to replace the gaskets and recrimp. ~$200 including radiator removal and install. He said as soon as it gets frigid he sees a lot of fords.

 

This re crimping job works well, did it several years ago, no leaks since. Hellva lot cheaper than a new radiator!

 

You need a new radiator and a new radiator shop.
Couple years ago mine was leaking and an honest shop told me it would cost more to fix than buy a new one. Plus even if fixed the old one would have many years worth of crud stuck in the tubes, and many potential leaks waiting their turn to appear. Got a new one from Advance Auto after price match to Rock Auto. Was around $140. Not a hard job to replace, and a good time to replace radiator cap, hoses, thermostat, and maybe heater core if it is original. Use a good flush before changing parts and you are good to go for a long time. Less than 4 hours work to do all of it.
Good Luck Frank

 

My raditator is solid other than the gaskets. It only has 33,000 miles and the shop advises up front they will not repair the radiator if it is not solid to begin with. 4 hours in minus 15 is not worth saving $200 to me. If it was nice out that would be a different story. For my application ie hd super cooling it is over $200 at rock auto plus shipping.

 

Yes you are right. Working on this outside in minus 15 weather is not a good option at nearly any price. The radiator I replaced had over 150,000 miles and at least one dose of stop leak.
Good Luck Frank

 

Picked it up and good as new. He said it was in perfect shape and that it was very clean when they rodded it out. If it lasts another 20 years I will be happy LOL>