Differences in radiator support shims (side & bottom) and approximate number per side

[Jeremy R.]

I am doing work on the front of my 66 and have a question about the type of shims used on the side of the radiator support/fender skirt and the shims used between the bottom of the radiator support/frame, and also a question about the approximate number of shims you would expect for all the locations. My car has had some front end damage some time in its life so I am not sure if everything I have found as far as the shims go is factory accurate, but I would like to find out.

First the 66 AIM on page 11-13, A5 calls for shims 3711834 to be used between the side radiator support and fender skirts. I got 2 top and bottom on one side and 1 top and bottom of the other. Does this sound correct?

Second the AIM on the same page calls for shims 3755670 (as required) to be used between the bottom of the radiator support and the frame. I had 5 on one side and none on the other, is this typical or at least not out of family? The 5 on the one side were all welded in place. The other side without any shims doesn't show any signs of busted welds or at least from what I can see.

Besides the number of shims everywhere, what is the difference between shims 3711834 and 3755670? I ask because all the shims I have are the same whether they are welded to the frame or loose.

[Wayne W.]

Re: Differences in radiator support shims (side & bottom) and approximate number per

The key here is the term "as required". There is no standard. On the sides they just filled the gaps. On the frame they matched the body to the frame. It would be unusual for it to have 5 on one side and 0 on the other, but not impossible.

[Rich P.]

Re: Differences in radiator support shims (side & bottom) and approximate number per

The shims will have a W or an H stamped on them. Ft ends were jig assembled so shims were added as needed when the radiator supports were bolted in. In my experience on MANY mid year noses is this. If there are 2 shims on the top bolt then there is one shim on the bottom, 1 shim on the top no shim on the bottom. Now that may not be on every car but typical.


As far as the 2 different shims. They are the same shim I "think" the different pt # is because the shim welded the frame were not plated. Just my thought.

[Jeremy R.]

Re: Differences in radiator support shims (side & bottom) and approximate number per

Thanks all