Probably a dumb question but my girlfriends new radiator in her 403 powered Trans Am has steel straps around it. Do these need to come off? I'd assume so but didnt want the radiator to fall apart if they are helping hold it together.

 

No, leave them on, they do not come off.

 

I agree they are part of the radiator structure.

 

I got them on my radiator too.

 

Ok glad I asked. So next question. There seems to be a plastic drain petcock in it. Is the plastic piece supposed to be replaced with a brass one? Or is is supposed to be functional?

 

I would change it to a brass one. Its much easier to use and less messy.

 

There may not be a metal drain **** available for that radiator.

 

My radiator had them too, but I cut them off cause I thought they looked cheesy. Are you guys sure they have to stay on?

 

I called the company, Vista pro in my case. The fellow on the phone who sounded knowledgeable said the straps were there for high po, racing or other hard service apps and for normal service one could remove them if desired for apperence sake.