78 Radiator & Condensor

[Joseph A.]

Hi everyone.

I have a question, does anybody restore old copper Radiators & Condensor's? Also does anybody sell restored or NOS Condensor's and Radiators. Let's first start with the Radiator. I really don't know if the Radiator that came out when I torn down the chassis is the original. I don't know what markings or numbers to look for because my Judging Guide says that there is a metal tag attached to the passenger side header tank of the Radiator with the brodcast code letters and the part number for the Radiator. I don't have the tag the Judging Guide is talking about. But I do have a metal tag on the upper right corner on the Driver's Side on the Condensor side of the Radiator. The tag reads as follows :

3R 10375

86 080

MADE IN U.S.A.

I really don't know at this point if it is the orignal, but it is a copper Radiator, But from what I really don't know.

The Condensor I removed from the car has no numbers or codes on it, But it has alot of bent fins. I talked to my local GM Dealer and a new Condensor is available from GM. But the GM dealer told me that it has changed part numbers. The problem I see here is by the Condensor changing part numbers that leads me to believe the design of it has changed. My Condensor that I removed has exposed tubes on both sides from top to bottom that go from one tube then curve down to the next. My Judging Guide makes no mention of part numbers or design. All it tells you is there should be any, if few bent fins and that the color should be semi-gloss black.

[Tom R.]

Re: 78 Radiator & Condensor

Joseph:

Interesting problem you pose. In recent months, I checked out my 78 and did some research among the late model C3 years so might be able to shed some light on your question.

The broadcast codes are two letter with a smaller number representing the month of production. So for example, my 78 shows MK7,indicating a base radiator produced in 1977. Underneath the tag is the part number...as the judging manual indicates.

By 1980, the broadcast code series used began with "F" and the two build sheets I have show "FP" and "FR" but the 1983 parts catalog shows that "FN" and "FW" (3043087)were also called out. The FN, FP, & FR all were assigned the part number 3053440 and were called out for both the L48 and the LG4. The L82 or the L48 or LG4 used the FW when the trailer package was ordered (V08). So the FW is the heavy-duty radiator for these model years.

Typically, higher horsepower motors (L82) called out a higher-rated capacity radiator but by the end of the model years, it was also the RPO V01 or V08 trailer package that called out the heavy duty radiator. The part numbers reference above were used from 1979-1981.

So the reference information you listed for the radiator you pulled from the 80 indicates a replacement. The "86 080" reads like a date code...the 80 day of the year 1986...but don't know for sure. The "3R" could serve as a replacement code for an "FR" coded radiator. And the part number appears to be a derivative or aftermarket part number. Clearly the tag on the condenser side departs from what we would expect to see on original radiators with the tag on the engine compartment side.

I haven't done this level of study on condensers but it sounds like you may have an original. Many restorers use DeWitt radiators who peruses the list here. If you're seeking some sembelance (is that a word) of originality...you may wish to replace the radiator with a Dewitt...at least you'll then know what you have. And with the information I've listed, you should figure out your engine/option configuration and select a correct radiator capacity for your Corvette. You can also ask DeWitt about restoration of your condenser.

Hope this helps.

[Joseph A.]

Re: 78 Radiator & Condensor

See Tom my car has a L-48 engine, automatic transmission, and does not have the towing package. So what brodcast code would be used for my 78? My car is a late production car. What is the number for this Dewitt Radiator. Also can I use the replacement condensor from GM and still not take a hit in points when I get my car judged?

Thanks

Joe

[Tom R.]

Re: 78 Radiator & Condensor

Sorry about that...somehow I got locked in on 80! I read the text and glossed over the title.

In that case, the broadcast code is MK and the GM part number is (was) 3035558...you'll have to call DeWitt for the appropriate number. In all likely, a correctly configured OEM replacement condenser will earn the full 2points! Most likely, the judges will scrutinize the radiator a lot more closely than the condenser.

[Joseph A.]

Re: 78 Radiator & Condensor

Tom: Does Dewitt have a Phone Number.

Thanks joe

[Patrick H.]

www.dewitts.com *NM*

[Dick W.]

Re: 78 Radiator & Condensor

Tom, you might want to compare condensers. The 68-72 condenser has a slight difference between the original and the available Delco Replacement. On the top right hand side where the tubes come together the original has a rectangular block functioning as a manifold. The replacement does not have this manifold or junction block. I do not know when this changed in production. It may have ended with the 72 or may have carried over to the later cars. Just food fer thought