This could go in a 2 or 3 different forums, so I'll post it here.

Just installed a 4 core radiator in my 69. I understand that 69's were 3 core only from the factory. Sure enough, I had to "tweak" my top plate a little on the driver's side to clear the larger rubber cushion. OK. That'll do until I find a top plate that fits just right. My question is, what year should I look for? A 70-72? Ground Up only shows 1 universal for 68-72. NPD and Paddock Parts have a chrome one that looks like it might work, which I don't really want. Here's a photo of each type.

Three Row Top Plate

http://www.ac3online.net/images/3rowtopplate.jpg

Four Row Top Plate

http://www.ac3online.net/images/4rowtopplate.jpg


Can anyone point me in the right direction???

(Man, there's a lot to do changing from a small block to a big block!)

I have the same setup as you do. But, I dont have a shroud. What kind of fan shroud do you have or is that electric fan setup. I cant tell.

Some solid lifter '70, ie.ls6,l78 chevelles used a special top plate with an extension on it to fit the larger radiator cores.I believe this was mandatory with steep rear gears like the 4.10.I know that one of my ls6 cars has the special plate and the other does not.I'm sure the experts here will be able to help you out more.

I had a similar issue when I installed my 4 core radiator. I used a top plate and shroud from a 75 impala.... fit perfectly. My old top plate was the three hole kind so I had to drill new holes (no biggie) for the four bolt top plate...just another option.. :)

The factory 4 row panels I have seen look like this. You can see the added tab at the lower left corner:


http://members.cox.net/chevelle/panel.jpg

I believe I got this picture off the Hinshaw's Chevelle Parts a while back. It appears to be identical to the GM piece. However, I couldn't find it on their website this morning. You may want to give them a call. (336) 586-0890

Im having same problems with putting big 4 core in my 72. Im also going to tweak the top plate but my shroud doesnt even attempt to work. Did u use a big block shroud also?"

I just found a link to the panel at Hinshaw's. They're asking $59 for it.

Panel (http://www.hinshawschevelle.com/shop/index.php?scat=55&Item=4429)

Neither photo is of my elky. The 3 row photo is from a 69 at the ACES KC show this year. The 4 row is from that red Yenko Chevelle that was on ebay a while back. (Saved all those nice photos to my hard drive for reference.) I had to notch my plate around the larger rubber cushion. Looks kinda funny sticking out there.

Since the 350 is still in there (for now), I just cut the return legs of my stock shroud down to fit the thicker radiator. Fits and works fine. I've bought a GM shroud to use when the big block goes in. Part #6261914. From all I've read and heard, it should work fine. We'll see in a few weeks.

Guess I'll call Ground Up and ask if their plate is full width on the driver's side or has the added piece like Hinshaws does. I'd really like to find one like the second photo, though.

You know.....this is half the fun of this hobby. Researching and finding the stuff you need. ;)


******edit******
Just talked to Ground Up. They say the top plate they carry is for the 4 core. It's on it's way at $26.95 plus shipping! (Internet special right now.) We'll see if it fits in a few days. graemlins/thumbsup.gif

That's good to hear! Let me know about the fit. I still need one for my '70 hardtop.

Jim

Well, it came in while I was gone last week. Haven't actually installed it, but holding it in place temporarily, it looks like a perfect fit. graemlins/thumbsup.gif

I believe the four row should have the extra 'welded corner tab' as mentioned before. It looks like this
http://www.chevelles.com/showroom/70Z15/radholddown.jpg