ok, for the 48-52, mine being a 51,

besides the 8 cyl having 2 inlet and 2 outlet, what is the difference between the radiators for the 8 cyl and for the 6 cyl?

I seems that when I try to find a radiator for my 302, the radiator for the 6 cyl is the one for the 302, like the one at LMCTruck.

 

I think that is the only difference. The size, capacity, etc should be the same.

Bobby

 

Joe
Sooner or later your going to have to learn about the original specifications for your truck. Then you can figure out what you need and what will work.

 

True, but if I kept the flathead, it would not be an issue, but since I have a 72 engine, i'm asking the questions. I'm not a radiator expert. I have all the measurements and specs of the 51 and all the books and diagrams, but last time I checked, they are not building 51 radiators. These are modern radiators to mount on a 51 mount so most stuff is custom and sinse I am a perfectionist I want it right the first time so I don't have to send stuff back. Bad habit, but thats my personality. Also when you go to Advance Auto or auto zone, the teenager doesn't know what your talking about, their auto database does not go back further than 1965, so its trial and error.

I'm already shipping a part back where the vendor said its for the 51 truck -- but its not. Their measurements did not match the 51 "Original Specifications" as you made clear to me.

I know some will say, thats what its all about, fabrication and modification. I know, I just don't want to waste time doing it for a radiator. I want to save my creativity for the body work and stuff like that. Plus I don't want to dump over $400 on a radiator, and still have to modify it to make it work for my truck.

Besides, I just wanted to know what the difference was between the two, thats all. Maybe the V-8 split atoms or something.

 

I know it can get frustrating trying to figure out just what part it is that you need, or what part might fit. The process I take is to do a ton of online research along with numerous measuring on the truck. There are tons of websites that have searchable databases that will give you pictures as well as dimensions of the part involved, especially radiators.

http://www.usradiator.com/catalog.htm
http://www.radiatorbarn.com/

It usually helps to have multiple web pages open to various places, that way you can jump back and forth between them. Use the above links to check out radiators, search through the database. This is the tedious part because you just have to "trial and error" choose and application, then read the specs on it and take notes. Once you find one that you like or will fit, etc. Take the application data and punch it into the database at your local parts store, Checker Auto, Autozone, Kragens, whatever. then you can take that part # down to your local store and order it up.
You don't always have to get the part in question from a specialty "old truck" supplier.

I found an old picture of my original radiator (my truck was a 6cyl) the upper hose is located at the upper middle of the tank, the lower hose is located at the lower passenger side. If that works with your 302 then I would look for a 6cyl radiator and have it rebuilt. It will be a direct bolt in, here is a pic of a 6cyl radiator;


I hope this helps. I think I messed around for several months before I decided on the mid 70's Dodge truck radiator adn building my own rad support.

Bobby

 

BWAHAHAHA!!!!!!!!

The flatty didn't split atoms. It cracked blocks!!!!!!!


Tim

 

Tim, that's so NOT funny!

Joe, I think you're in luck. The trucks with flatheads used radiators that had more capacity than was required. I'm sure any of them including one set up for the six will keep your 302 cool.

The bonus is 302's have waterpumps available with lower intake pipes on either side. So get one with the passenger side pipe and you're all set. You'll have to find a counter person who has gray hair to remember them, but they should be easy to find (I'm thinking van application or maybe mustang??)

 

I can't believe this guy said that!!!

 

Thanks for the input guys.
My waterpump intake is on the drivers side.

 

Believe it.

 

Early Mustangs and Early Broncos have the water pump pipe on the passenger side. However, you may have to change some mounts for the P.S. and A.C., if you're going to run them. Also, a good radiator shop can re-core the original radiator and/or change the neck locations for you.

 

mt:
You are certainly right. it's only funny in a black humor kinda way.

If the block issues weren't so prevalent, I'd be running a hoped up flatty today!

Tip of the hat to you guys who keep'em running.

Tim