Author Topic: Cutting radiator core support (Read 2130 times)

eZ65 · « **on:** September, 14, 2008, 01:18:24 PM »

What would you use to cut the core support? Before you tell me "no, dont do that blah blah blah" I already have a 22'' aluminum radiator, electric fan with shroud.

here is a pic
http://www.rondavisradiators.com/mustang-mod4.jpg

daveSanborn · « **Reply #1 on:** September, 14, 2008, 01:42:04 PM »

Simple.... a hi-speed pneumatic mini-grinder with a cut-off wheel installed on it.

Do you have access to an air compressor? If so, go to AutoZone/Lowes and pickup one of their mini-grinders. You'll soon wonder how you ever survived without one. I haven't used my old trusty hacksaw since buying the grinder, it can be used to cut/trim almost anything.

Before you go and cut that rad. support though.... I just installed a massive radiator in my '66 and did so without cutting anything.

There are pictures of the installed radiator in my gallery.

eZ65 · « **Reply #2 on:** September, 14, 2008, 01:56:17 PM »

How do I see your photo Gallery?

Midlife · « **Reply #3 on:** September, 14, 2008, 04:00:59 PM »

+1. I bought a 90^o Ingersol-Rand mni-grinder from Lowes, and use 0.035" thick cutting wheels. It's one of my favorite tools.

The radiator support is spot-welded at the corners to the frame rails, so a spot-weld cutter is also called for.

daveSanborn · « **Reply #4 on:** September, 15, 2008, 07:39:10 AM »

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How do I see your photo Gallery?

Towards the top of this page, you'll see a folder tab marked "Gallery". Open this folder and scroll down until you see "DaveSanborns66". Open that gallery and I believe the photos of the big new radiator are on page 3.

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The radiator support is spot-welded at the corners to the frame rails, so a spot-weld cutter is also called for.

He's not removing his radiator support, only enlarging the opening, no spot weld cutter would be required for this task.

Fast68back · « **Reply #5 on:** September, 15, 2008, 05:58:22 PM »

Dave, are those horns plastic?

eZ65 · « **Reply #6 on:** September, 15, 2008, 06:15:51 PM »

Isnt the point of the larger radiaot to allow more air to pass through the core?

daveSanborn · « **Reply #7 on:** September, 15, 2008, 06:26:23 PM »

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Dave, are those horns plastic?

I don't think so.... they're brand new though, that's why they look so clean.

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Isnt the point of the larger radiator to allow more air to pass through the core?

Yes, and no. In addition to providing a larger cooling surface (by cutting the radiator support), the larger radiator also provides a greater coolant capacity, thus helping absorb heat and ultimately transfer it faster.

If you're experiencing an overheating problem, try installing w/o cutting the radiator support. If the engine is still running a little warmer than it should, then enlarge the radiator support.