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Cutting radiator core support

Simple.... a hi-speed pneumatic mini-grinder with a cut-off wheel installed on it.

Do you have access to an air compressor? If so, go to AutoZone/Lowes and pickup one of their mini-grinders. You'll soon wonder how you ever survived without one. I haven't used my old trusty hacksaw since buying the grinder, it can be used to cut/trim almost anything.

Before you go and cut that rad. support though.... I just installed a massive radiator in my '66 and did so without cutting anything.

There are pictures of the installed radiator in my gallery.

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+1. I bought a 90[sup]o[/sup] Ingersol-Rand mni-grinder from Lowes, and use 0.035" thick cutting wheels. It's one of my favorite tools.

The radiator support is spot-welded at the corners to the frame rails, so a spot-weld cutter is also called for.
 
How do I see your photo Gallery?
Click to expand...

Towards the top of this page, you'll see a folder tab marked "Gallery". Open this folder and scroll down until you see "DaveSanborns66". Open that gallery and I believe the photos of the big new radiator are on page 3.

The radiator support is spot-welded at the corners to the frame rails, so a spot-weld cutter is also called for.
Click to expand...

He's not removing his radiator support, only enlarging the opening, no spot weld cutter would be required for this task.


3_07_09_08_6_09_12_0.JPG
 
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Dave, are those horns plastic?
Click to expand...

I don't think so.... they're brand new though, that's why they look so clean.

Isnt the point of the larger radiator to allow more air to pass through the core?
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Yes, and no. In addition to providing a larger cooling surface (by cutting the radiator support), the larger radiator also provides a greater coolant capacity, thus helping absorb heat and ultimately transfer it faster.

If you're experiencing an overheating problem, try installing w/o cutting the radiator support. If the engine is still running a little warmer than it should, then enlarge the radiator support.
 
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