C-1 1960 Top tank radiator

[William B.]

Bought this car w/ '57 (dated 56M)radiator. Now has standard replacement. Was thinking of converting it to top tank (it is 270 hp car) just for fun. But before I have too much fun will the top tank work with no issues. Was the hood different for any reason? I realize I may need new mounting bracket. The basic question is... am I working with a simple bolt in of some new stuff or do I have a lot of work cut out for me.

[Dennis A.]

Re: C-1 1960 Top tank radiator

Bill...

Installing a Top Tank radiator is no problem with the hood off. 60-61 w/top tank's used the same core support as early 60 style brass radiators. As a note, the top radiator tower clamp should be turned sideways to prevent hitting the hood.

Top Tank hoods;

59 hoods will not close with a top tank radiator.

1960 hoods had a front shelf moved forward to clear the top tank.

1961 hoods were further modified with a notch in the front shelf to clear the top clamp on later radiators.

[Ted S.]

Re: C-1 1960 Top tank radiator

Assuming your dealing with a '60 it should be a bolt in item. Two things are different than earlier models to support the top tank, the radiator support has curved upper brace and the inner structure on the hood has a relief area for the top tank. If you can post a picture of the front cross brace on the radiator support and inner structure across the front of the hood I can tell if they will allow for the top tank radiator. Here's a picture of a '60 I used to have with a top tank. Look at the relationship of the hood hinges verses the inner support structure on the hood.

[Ted S.]

Correct Core Support

Notice the top brace curves out.

[Ted S.]

Incorrect Core Support

Notice the top brace is straight accross

[Ted S.]

Earlier Hood - No Relief for Top Tank.

Here's a '58 hood that does not have the relief for the top tank. On the '60 hood the front inner structure is cut back about even with the front of the hood hinge pockets on this hood.

[Loren L.]

Re: C-1 1960 Top tank radiator

I'm not sure what "standard replacement" means, but top tanks do NOT bolt to the support, but to brackets that bolt to the support. Also, be aware that some very early 270's did NOT get the top tank. Your other problem is that the hole for the top tank radiator drain is on the driver's side and the others are on the passenger side.

[Roy B.]

Here are the year hoods again Save pic. *NM*

[William B.]

Re: C-1 1960 Top tank radiator

Thanks to everyone for info & pics