Hi;
I'm in the process of rebuilding/re-installing a 455 in my 1969 442. When I went to re-install the radiator, I noticed the lower outlet connection on the radiator is smaller that it should be [the correct lower radiator hose is 1-3/4" connection] My radiator has a 1-9/16 connection...so I'm thinking this is the wrong radiator for the car.
I'm looking to get the right radiator with the 1-3/4 outlet...can someone point me in the right direction? I've looked all over the internet and there seems to be some confusion on the correct radiator for that car/engine combination.

 

BTW...Manual Trans, No AC

 

If your looking for something that will function I should have a 3 row radiator that could be rebuilt. If your looking for the correct code application for that year I may not be able to help. What part of the country/world are you in? If in the northern states/provinces a 3 row would probably be fine. If your in the southern states you may want to consider upgrading to a 4 row to have the extra cooling. Here's a thread of radiators I've got for sale.

https://classicoldsmobile.com/forums...-shipping.html

John

 

I'm actually looking for a new radiator.

Any suggestions?

 

If you can not find the correct radiator , I have seen people make a bushing out of radiator hose to make up difference in the diameter. Or you could put a 1971 and newer water pump and lower hose on that would be the smaller size. good luck with your project

 

I did find the correct radiator at The Parts Place [28 1/4 x 18 1/4 with the 1 3/4 bottom connection]...but they want $500 for it. I was hoping to find one more affordable!

 

i have actually seen rubber bushings that come with some new radiators, for this purpose. I had one around here at one point, but I am sure it is beyond lost now.

 

http://www.ebay.com/itm/ALLSTAR-RADI...-/130693551554


or you can easily make your own

 

Or you can use a lower rad hose from a '80 - '84 Regency...they have a smaller outlet and fit the same as a Cutlass...also a rad shop can change the outlet for you...saves you a couple hundred.

 

when researching a replacement radiator, another factor to bear in mind is the fins per inch count, generally, the higher the number, the better the heat transfer.


bill