rfpowerdude

Here is what my '70 battery area looks like. I have no idea how the battery is supposed to sit in here. Obviously, a lot has rotted away likely from battery acidity. Does anyone have a pic like mine with the battery out? How would this be brought back to stock? Whole new core support?
How is this supposed to look?
Looking from the driver's point of view

joe_padavano

You're kinda missing the whole battery tray thing. The correct tray mounting depends on whether you have a 350 with the small battery or a 455 with the large battery. This PIM diagram is for the small block cars.

joe_padavano

By the way, years ago there used to be a patch panel available for that area, but it is long out of production.

rfpowerdude

Thanks Joe, that PIM pic helps a lot!
I'll go through the pile of parts that my buddy included with the car and see if the battery tray is in there. If so, I gotta find the right screws for it and the inner fender.

Would be nice to have that patch panel!

rfpowerdude

Ok, I went through the tubs and tubs of stuff and found it! I also looked through my H UG E pile of Olds/GM hardware to get the right bolts.

Is this right? And what is that flap and where does it go?

joe_padavano

Yes, that is correct. The flap goes up and over the radiator top plate to prevent air from bypassing the radiator. There should be a fastener that snaps into a hole in the top plate.

rfpowerdude

Thx again all, I appreciate it!

Now, if I go to buy a new battery, what is the sizing info? I want it to fit right the first time…

Vintage Chief

You would be well served to pick up at least one if not both of the following:
A 1970 Product Information Manual (PIM) - sometimes referred to as the FAM (Factory Assembly Manual); and,
A 1970 Fisher Body Service Manual

You can find copies of each on eBay and elsewhere. Rather than explain the nuances of each, I'll provide you a link you can review on your own. Note (in particular) the PIM (FAM) was never produced as a hardbound compendium book (read the link). You might reach out to CO Member "Hairy Olds" as he produces some very fine copies of originals. Sometimes you can find decent CD copies of each - but the quality is very dodgy.

Factory Assembly Manual