C1 '62 - Gambling on a 3150916 radiator ??

[David K.]

Re: Early '62, I'd need stamped label correct?

Rich, I used to fret over the fact that my casting dates have that bugger of casting flash over it and how the judges would preceive it. But, I have long since got over that. I agree with you on the probable cast date. Also, going from memory, the heads were cast around July 15 or 17. I remember mid July and I can easily check them if you would like to know. Of course these are the "896" heads. There are a number of July dates on various componets. It is fun stuff!!!

[Richard M.]

Re: Early '62, I'd need stamped label correct?

Hi Dave, No need to get the head #'s. Sounds right. Mine are mid August(H) if I recall. My engine cast# is a bit buggered up too(pic below). I'm sure many are like that. I'm finding many August dates on mine too. Yes fun stuff. I even found a date stamped on the hood front lip. Not many here knew that, and I never did either till I saw it while taking photos for a paint question here a few months ago. Because it's a faded white car from sunny florida it survived. The paint must have peeled off from heat over the years and left it there. When I paint the car I need to figure out a way to preserve it.

It's stamped AUG 23 1961
Hard to make out but here it is: http://tinyurl.com/39j5b6

Rich

[Thomas D.]

Re: Early '62, I'd need stamped label correct?

Rich,

Your early 62 would come with the screwed on tag, just like the original, and the date code of 61H would be right. NCRS rules allow up to six months prior to the build date but typical radiators were 1-2 months. All 62 rads were painted and the square boss was 61 only.

For others that are "on the fence" you might want to consider a Direct Fit radiator instead of the Resto model. The Direct Fit model is still 100% aluminum, cost $525, and if you order the optional Black Ice coat they look pretty good in there. The Direct Fit is a slight downgrade in performance, about 10%, but most cars don't have a problem with that. We use the same cast necks to make these units. Just another option

[Richard M.]

Re: Early '62, I'd need stamped label correct?

Hi Tom,

Thanks for the reply. I wasn't too sure about this as my 62 is a early one(#483), with various differences. I need the right stuff for this one as I'm going all out for authenticity.

Thanks Again,
Rich

[David K.]

Re: Early '62, I'd need stamped label correct?

Rich, my radiator for '62 #399 came in yesterday. I have studied it against the original rad., you won't be disapointed. Unless you will miss the very old patina of the old radiator. The sad part is it makes everything else under the hood look bad.

[Richard M.]

Re: 62 used radiator got repaired, but........

Hi Dave, Thanks for the information. I got the other radiator repaired(alum welded) and picked it up Friday. The welding shop said the areas they repaired were strong and the repairs should be good. I dropped it off at the rad shop and will be retested Monday.

After all this I'm going for the new Dewitts though. Decided if I'm doing the car right I'll get the correct one with the right dated tag and proper housing for my early car. Glad you're happy with yours and thanks for sharing.

Rich