Topic: 1968 upper radiator bracket differences

[krelboyne]

Pulling some parts for a customer today and noticed that there are at least 3 variations on the 24 inch upper radiator brackets found on 1968 cars. These brackets all came from Cougars, so they would only be from Dearborn and San Jose factories. Did a search, and nothing came up. As shown in the photos, the difference is in the ends where the rubber insulators are located.

[J_Speegle]

There is at least one TSB concerning a redesign of the bracket, if I recall correctly - where it rubbed the top tank. Will try and find time to did it out with its illustrations and text (busy couple of weeks coming up)

[TLea]

My guess would be it had to do with the lack of clamping ability with was finally combatted in 69 by the goofy looking extra lag screw through the top

[Murf]

Our 68 - schedules build date of 03 April, SJ plant-  has the clamp that matches the bottom one in your image. 

[Bob Gaines]

Our 68 - schedules build date of 03 April, SJ plant-  has the clamp that matches the bottom one in your image.

The bottom picture is the last design I believe and what was last serviced. Had a few NOS ones over the years. The repros have the that same flaired edge just more so then the original it seems. Not knowing any differeance the repros are typically copied from the last serviced design.   

[Bob Gaines]

The middle one is typicall of 67 production.

[J_Speegle]

Found the TSB article #1319
Text basically warns of potential Upper Radiator tank damage (AC or extra cooling units) due to retain bracket digging in to radiator at rear tip of brackets.

Fixed in production after Nov 1967