TK-70
Jan 26th, 00, 5:44 PM
Reason I ask is that I'm replacing the rusted radiator core support in my SB car (1970). I seem to recall my previous BB car had 4-bolts on the top of radiator, and the radiator was much larger. Haven't decided on converting to a big block yet, but want to keep the option open while I do this replacement. Thx, TK.
JeffK
Jan 26th, 00, 5:51 PM
Yes they are different. Big Block cars and Small Block cars W/AC (heavy duty cooling) have a larger opening for the larger radiator. These are the ones with 4 bolts.
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JeffK ACES #01510
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496 EFI/Richmond 6-Speed
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chev-hell
Jan 26th, 00, 5:55 PM
either a 21 or 28" radiator
TK-70
Jan 26th, 00, 5:58 PM
Thanks guys. As always, this is great. TK
drptop70ss
Jan 27th, 00, 8:34 AM
they really are the same. If you have a small block support, true the rad opening will be smaller but the outline of the larger opening will be stamped in the support. So it can be opened up to the same size. Same with the 4 vs 3 upper rad support bolts, the marks are there for each set of bolts. You can just drill out the other set to use the larger support. Definately not for a concours resto, but not noticable on a nice driver.
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70 chevelle ss396 conv
66 chevelle ss396 hdp/conv
55 chevy prostreet
TK-70
Jan 27th, 00, 9:37 AM
drptop, thanks immensely for your comment. That changes everything! I already have a replacement small block support in my hands, and was contemplating dumping it to get a bb support instead. If I can go ahead and use this one in either case, that makes my life easier. Agreed, a modified support will keep me out of the Barrett-Jackson auction, but I have no delusions of being there anyway!
[This message has been edited by TK-70 (edited 01-27-2000).]
richr
Jan 27th, 00, 10:19 AM
Tom,
As e-mailed earlier - I did the swap in my 71 never changed my rad support or opened it up. In fact I never even considered it would be a problem. In the end it worked out fine.
Also as I recall in my 71 I had 4 bolts on my small block rad support. I'll try and bring a pic to work, scan it here and e-mail it to you.
By the way saw the pic of your car in your paint post. Hope you don't mind I saved it my screen savor - car looks great from the pic.
Rich
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70 SS - L34
Member # 442
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