C2 Radiator Removal - Small Block

[Michael A.]

Looking for a little help before I tackle this weekend's task. The replacement radiator in my 66 SB roadster has sprung a leak around the tube that goes to the upper radiator hose. I'm not quite ready to make the leap to a DeWitt repro radiator and just want to have this one repaired.

Here are the questions - I've not removed a radiator before -

1) is it as easy as it looks? Remove hoses, remove bracket across the center top of rad, remove a couple of bolts and slide it up and out?
2) are there any attaching bolts at the bottom or does it simply rest on rubber mounts? If there are rubber mounts, should I replace them? (btw - best guess is that this rad was installed by original owner about 21 years ago)
3) do I need to remove the hood for clearance/access?

Thanks in advance for advice and tips on this task.

Cheers,

[Tim S.]

Re: C2 Radiator Removal - Small Block

Looking for a little help before I tackle this weekend's task. The replacement radiator in my 66 SB roadster has sprung a leak around the tube that goes to the upper radiator hose. I'm not quite ready to make the leap to a DeWitt repro radiator and just want to have this one repaired.

Here are the questions - I've not removed a radiator before -

1) is it as easy as it looks? Remove hoses, remove bracket across the center top of rad, remove a couple of bolts and slide it up and out?

No. The shroud will need to come with it. That can be a little tricky by the front of the A arms.
2) are there any attaching bolts at the bottom or does it simply rest on rubber mounts? Yes, no other bolts on the radiator. Just the fan shroud.
If there are rubber mounts, should I replace them? (btw - best guess is that this rad was installed by original owner about 21 years ago)Not a bad idea
3) do I need to remove the hood for clearance/access? You don't have to but it would make things a little nicer.

Thanks in advance for advice and tips on this task.
Just be patient. It's not that bad to do. you just don't want to do it over again

Cheers,
Back at ya!

Best of luck to ya.

Tim

[Michael A.]

Re: C2 Radiator Removal - Small Block

Best of luck to ya.

Tim

Hey Tim
Thanks for the reply and the moral support!

Question regarding the shroud - do I remove it before removing the radiator or does the radiator come out with it?

Cheers
Mike

[Tim S.]

Re: C2 Radiator Removal - Small Block

If memory serves me correct. I pulled it together. It's been a few years (and beers!)

[Michael M.]

Re: C2 Radiator Removal - Small Block

Michael, I am sure there are a couple of ways to do this job but I always remove the shroud first. Before I remove the shroud I remove the fan blade first.

[Paul J.]

Re: C2 Radiator Removal - Small Block

Mike, I can't add too much to the previous advice, but I've done this job many times. I always take the shroud out first. I usually do not remove the hood, and I've sometimes removed the fan, but usually not. It's tight in there so be prepared. Tim's advice about being patient is priceless. You don't want to tear anything up.

Paul

[Dave K.]

Re: C2 Radiator Removal - Small Block

Michael, I am sure there are a couple of ways to do this job but I always remove the shroud first. Before I remove the shroud I remove the fan blade first.

Shroud may be difficult to remove by itself. Only one way out and in. I pulled my radiator and shroud together. Job is easier with two people -- one on each side. Bottom hose removal/installation can be tricky. Good luck.

[Michael A.]

Re: C2 Radiator Removal - Small Block

Thanks to all for the advice and counsel. Unfortunately I'll have to put the removal off for a few days. I sliced my index finger open while installing some cabinet drawers - pretty stupid! It's best not to bath it in 3 year old coolant while emptying the old radiator. Looks like it will be next weekend before I get to start on it.

Tim, since I can't get started this weekend, it's time to open up a beer. I think that I can do that safely!

Cheers,