I will be replacing the radiator core bushings. I am assuming if I remove the 3-4 bolts securing the fender to the core. And remove a few bolts securing the wheel well at the core and fender area, then with some persuasion, and some very careful upward pressure on the core support, monitoring any potential interference issues, that I will be able to get the bushings in…. Has anyone installed the bushing w/o removing fenders, bumper etc…most of the front end?
thanks

 

Hey friend, I'm in the same predicament as you were. I see it's been a while since your post, but were you able to get enough space to install your bushings?

 

Keep in mind that new bushings will raise the core support and fan shroud, so, if your motor mounts are old your fan could strike the shroud. Also, the fenders will move up with the higher core support, be prepared to align the front clip..have you replaced your body bushings?

 

Thanks for the comeback. I'm dealing with a previous owner that never put the bolts back in the radiator support bushings. (that might explain the bouncing of the fenders and hood)The bushings weren't too bad, so my new bushing kit went in just fine. Eventually I will finally find all the missing bolts in the front end. Some people just have no business working on cars.

 

I did loosen/remove all bolts at the front of the core and fender (nothing at the rear of the fender), removed the core top plate, removed the grills etc, dropped the bumper. I loosened and or remove as much as possible so the core was free to lift up some so I could slide that bushing in. Just a lot of checking and rechecking as you start to lift the core up, very slowly just enough to get the old bushing out and get the new one in. It was not easy. But, for me, I was not going to remove fenders and a hood and have to reinstall, reset the entire front end on a finished car. All went back together just fine and final fitment of the fender at the front is great. no issues. It was a good winter project...

 

I hear that I have a 71 442 that a guy put together with 70 cutlass parts he has not one but 3 nuts on the core support bolts on both sides and I can not break either side loose will likely have to cut both off with a sawzall .