Radiator Swap Size is wrong

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Old April 23rd, 2012, 08:40 AM
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Radiator Swap Size is wrong

I have a 1971 cutlass supreme 350 with A/C.

I am putting a 455 in and want to do a radiator upgrade.

I went with a Spectra Premium 434-CU165 but it does not fit.

Radiator StyleCrossflowRow QuantityFour-rowRadiator FinishBlackRadiator MaterialCopper/BrassTransmission CoolerYesInlet LocationUpper driver sideInlet Size1 9/16 in.Outlet LocationLower passenger sideOutlet Size1 9/16 in.Core Height (in)16.875 in.Core Thickness (in)2.625 in.Core Width (in)28.250 in.
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Old April 23rd, 2012, 09:25 AM
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In what way does it not fit? The top support plate has to be changed when going from a 3 row to a 4 row...
The mounts in the bottom may need mods, too.
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Old April 23rd, 2012, 09:29 AM
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I had the same problem. I just swapped for a Aluminum radiator. It was too tall. I had to modify the existing upper support to make it fit. It fits fine now But modification was needed.

Last edited by 70cutlass831guy; April 23rd, 2012 at 09:31 AM. Reason: edit
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Old April 23rd, 2012, 09:42 AM
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As a refresher for those coming in late, the four row radiators are thicker. As a result, the factory used different bottom saddle brackets on the core support and a different top plate. These are unique to cars with four row cores. You need to remove the bottom brackets and weld new ones on and replace the top plate with a correct one.
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Old April 23rd, 2012, 09:47 AM
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Got it.

Maybe I will go with a aluminum radiator with demsions as close as possible to stock. Will a 2 row aluminum cool a 455? How about my stock radiator? I have a 350 with A/C 3 row right now.

What works with the least modifications?
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Old April 23rd, 2012, 09:50 AM
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Originally Posted by joe_padavano
As a refresher for those coming in late, the four row radiators are thicker. As a result, the factory used different bottom saddle brackets on the core support and a different top plate. These are unique to cars with four row cores. You need to remove the bottom brackets and weld new ones on and replace the top plate with a correct one.
As impatient as I am, I went the Monster garage way and cut and bent to fit. it doesnt actually look too bad. you would probably look at me with a face of disgust if you saw it lol. Hey what works for me might not be right for some but ahhhhh what the heck.
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Old April 23rd, 2012, 10:06 AM
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I have no problem doing that. You just cut one end of the bracket off?
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Old April 23rd, 2012, 10:27 AM
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Originally Posted by 1971viking
I have no problem doing that. You just cut one end of the bracket off?
My particular radiator set up had two pieces of the upper support on each end that wrapped around the top of the radiator. I cut them off with a grinder and a cutting wheel. Then I bolted up the upper support to the radiator core support measured and bent upwards on it till i got a pretty tight fit. This process required a few fitment trys until I was happy with the fit. I then used two bolts about 3 to 4 inches long through the upper support to make sure the radiator wouldnt fall out of place and hit the fan. i used the original rubber seats as well. I forgot to mention I had to open up the lower mouting brackets so the radiator would sit flush at the bottom. I hope this helps you out. I think you can see the mount on my profile page. Im wrong you cant see it sorry.

Mind you its not a eaxct fit.
God hands me Lemons, I make Lemonade

Last edited by 70cutlass831guy; April 23rd, 2012 at 10:32 AM. Reason: I was wrong
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