Topic: Radiator Suggestion

[66RagTop]

Need to replace my radiator. I have a '66, San Jose built, 289 4v V8 with AC and AT. Any suggestions who manufacturers a good quality authentic looking replacement radiator? Also what is the proper part number initial installed?

Thanks

[J_Speegle]

Need to replace my radiator. I have a '66, San Jose built, 289 4v V8 with AC and AT. Any suggestions who manufacturers a good quality authentic looking replacement radiator?

There is none IMHO

Also what is the proper part number initial installed?

When was your car approx built at San Jose?

[66RagTop]

It was built, December 1965..

[J_Speegle]

Need to replace my radiator. I have a '66, San Jose built, 289 4v V8 with AC and AT.....................It was built, December 1965..

Guessing your car came with Thermactor/Smog?


Would expect that by the time your car was assembled San Jose radiators would have most likely been identified with a soldered on plate - see below
The only unknown is if it was order with a "Desert Cooler" but most likely it was not



- The Engineering number in a shorter version -  The shortened information being stamped on a small rectangle thin plate soldered over the radiator strap - often on the passenger end of the radiator on top as shown in the picture below. The marking would most likely be C4ZE M2

Then to the passenger side of the first flat section

- The maker - W-MO

- And below that the date - Likely something like 9 or 10-65

[66RagTop]

Jeff, yes the car was initially setup with Thermactor/Smog, but someone has removed it over the years and it is currently not installed.

The information below regarding the proper radiator setup is excellent. Thanks for the details.

One other question, until I can setup/locate the exact radiator as you indicate below do you have any suggestions for a temporary radiator to use in the mean time? Looking for something I can at least install for now, that looks somewhat proper, and works well for cooling. Spring is almost here and currently this is the one thing at the moment holding me back to get the car out on the road to enjoy.

Appreciate the advice.

John

[CharlesTurner]

The repro radiators have the curved strap ends that attach to the top tank, but that's about the only thing that is similar to a SJ radiator.  Afraid there just is no reasonable substitute if you're looking for an authentic appearance.

[rocket289k]

Need to replace my radiator. I have a '66, San Jose built, 289 4v V8 with AC and AT. Any suggestions who manufacturers a good quality authentic looking replacement radiator? Also what is the proper part number initial installed?

Thanks

If possible I'd explore getting your existing radiator re-cored.  This method will use your existing tanks and brackets from your "bad" radiator and put them onto a brand new core.  Unless your radiator is physically damaged this would be your best bet to maintain the look of your factory radiator.

Ron

[artistcsf]

If possible I'd explore getting your existing radiator re-cored.  This method will use your existing tanks and brackets from your "bad" radiator and put them onto a brand new core.  Unless your radiator is physically damaged this would be your best bet to maintain the look of your factory radiator.

Ron

I agree, if it can be repaired than that's your best option. I had a imported radiator when I bought my car, it leaked so I bought a new one. It was also an import and starting leaking after a month or so. Got a replacement under warranty and that lasted two years... now it leaks again. I found one on NPD that looks promising though (Mustang RADIATOR, SUPER HIGH EFFICIENCY  8005-1AH ) Says it's: Premium grade and US-made, copper and brass construction. Don't know how correct it is but hopefully the quality will be much better.