[number9]

I'm replacing my radiator and the in-built tranny cooler has the ports in different places compared to the old radiator:

The inlet & outlet ports on the old radiator are about 10" between centers on the old radiator, and they're about 7.5" on the new radiator (which is from a '70 Chevelle).

What are my options? There are companies that make repro tranny cooling lines like this:

But those aren't going to fit because the ports are in a different spot. Should I use some kind of flexible line instead? I've got a 383 small-block and a TH350. The other thing I'm confused about is that I'll probably add a stand-alone tranny cooler at some point, which is going to mean further modification to the (hard) cooler lines. Unless I use flexible ones..?

 

[VinceS427bb]

if you still have the current trans-lines,
you should be able to redirect them by tweaking/bending them to where you need them.
just don't kink them, the lines are the same as 5/16'' flare fitting brake line.
short 6'' sections with flare fittings, and couplers are available at NAPA, Autozone, O'Reilly, etc...

 

[El Guapo]

You "Could" run a couple of lines, but I seriously think you'd be better off as suggested, and tweak those lines you have. The route from the transmission and next to the block, that's the best path. From there you are free of the engine and have only to go to the radiator, that's where I'd tweak the lines to fit.
IF you still wanted to run flexible rubber lines (not advocating it, as I have done it), use PS hose/line. Fuel line will NOT work (deteriorates). I think Weatherhead has even the right "Stub" size that fits the trans and radiator holes to run a "hose". The only nice thing going that way, is you can place it pretty much anywhere, zip tie the hoses together, and it should stay in place. Downside, it's a hose. Thus, I advocate running the metal lines.

 

[number9]

if you still have the current trans-lines,
you should be able to redirect them by tweaking/bending them to where you need them.
just don't kink them, the lines are the same as 5/16'' flare fitting brake line.
short 6'' sections with flare fittings, and couplers are available at NAPA, Autozone, O'Reilly, etc...

Thanks Vince, but I ruined the old lines when removing the tranny from the car :sad: I also ruined the vacuum line too. So I figure I will have to buy new ones regardless.

You "Could" run a couple of lines, but I seriously think you'd be better off as suggested, and tweak those lines you have. The route from the transmission and next to the block, that's the best path. From there you are free of the engine and have only to go to the radiator, that's where I'd tweak the lines to fit.
IF you still wanted to run flexible rubber lines (not advocating it, as I have done it), use PS hose/line. Fuel line will NOT work (deteriorates). I think Weatherhead has even the right "Stub" size that fits the trans and radiator holes to run a "hose". The only nice thing going that way, is you can place it pretty much anywhere, zip tie the hoses together, and it should stay in place. Downside, it's a hose. Thus, I advocate running the metal lines.

Thanks El Guapo. I'll call Summit or Jegs and see what they have for flexible lines. To be honest, the look of the flexible line appeals to me, but I do not want them to fail. So if the reliability isn't there I'll go with hard lines.

A set of those hard lines (like I posted above), pre-bent are about $40. A vacuum line, pre-bent is about $25.