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I need info on converting a 1946 1/2 ton pickup hood latch panel from a 6 cyl. to a v8 panel. The V8 panel is longer which moves the radiator closer to the fan. Is the radiator support different or can it be moved??? Are the fender to radiator support brackets different?? I already have the V8 latch panel. Thanks in advance....Josh.
The radiator can just be moved back to the 2 rear holes on the frame. Same with the brackets that hold the radiator to the inner fender panels, just move them back to the next set of holes. The only problem you'll have is a gap at the bottom inside of your grille. The lower splash panel is different for 6 and 8's. You'll need an 8 cyl panel to close the gap between the panel and radiator. Those 2 panels are the only things different between the 6 and 8.
Gary
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1946 pickup-ongoing project
1946 pickup-waiting for resto.
1947 pickup-parts truck
1957 Ford FL 500 Town Victoria
1970 Mustang FB-daily driver
1972 Olds Vista Cruiser-4 sale
1988 Bronco II-for sale
Thanks Gary, i appreciate the info. I found the upper latch panel at a recent swap meet ($5.00!!!) but no lower panel for sale. Do you know if it available through Mac's, etc.?? Also in related 6 to V8 conversion, is the V8 harness a direct replacement for the original 6 cylinder harness?? I mean as far as firewall grommet size and location and cluster connections, etc. ...the previous owner installed a '49 flathead but the wiring was never updated/connected. Thanks, Josh. P.S. do you have any recommendations as far as a good brand/supplier for the harness??? It seams you have been though this before!!! Looking for quality/fit over price..
[updated:LAST EDITED ON 03-Jun-02 AT 11:12 PM (EST)]As far as the lower panel goes, I've never seen it in repro form. I've seen them on eBay a couple times, but very rarely at swap meets. I actually prefer the 6 cylinder parts since it makes putting a small block in easier. Getting the upper panel for $5 was a good deal. As far as the wiring goes, yes, you can install the new harness and it should fit throught the firewall grommet and connections in the cab will be the same. The only difference between the 6 and 8 wiring was all in the engine compartment, and then it was only do to the different location of various accesories.
Gary
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1946 pickup-ongoing project
1946 pickup-waiting for resto.
1947 pickup-parts truck
1957 Ford FL 500 Town Victoria
1970 Mustang FB-daily driver
1972 Olds Vista Cruiser-4 sale
1988 Bronco II-for sale
Rezvani's Latest Post-Apocalyptic Monster Is a Ford F-150 Raptor Underneath
Slideshow: Called the Fortress, the 850-horsepower pickup combines Raptor underpinnings with military-inspired features, survival equipment, and a starting price of $285,000.