More on the 3-row radiator(making it fit)

[KustomSkylark]

I'm trying to stuff the 3-row in my '63 Comet wagon. It won't fit and I need some tips. What is the easiest way to make them fit? I was thinking about cutting out the metal flange that it mounts to and using flat steal to connect it to the rest of the front structure. Is there an easier way?

 

[PLP6400]

I cut slots in the metal at the top of the core support so the radiator mounting flange is behind the metal. I used washers to space it forward as far as it would go. Even by doing this I only gained about a 1/4", because the bottom radiator tank is against the front frame now. I only have about a 1/4" from the fan blades to the radiator and I feel that maybe a little to close.

I was at the L.A. Roadster show this past Saturday and saw this electric fan that the company rep told me was designed for early Falcons and Mustangs with 6 cyl. engines. The fan is quite expensive at $420.00. If my engine should shift forward and hit the radiator. I will probably go with this fan


http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y17/pl ... ic-fan.jpg

 

[KustomSkylark]

I thought about doing that too, but was afraid that the slots would allow the whole area to flex. Did you just cut two slots then slid the ends of the radiator through?

 

[PLP6400]

I just cut the slots about a 1/4" wide x 1 1/4" long at the top. Just enough for the mounting flange on the radiator to slide through. There is no flex in the core support after doing this. THe only Fan that I have found that will work with the 3 row radiator is the stock 4 or 6 blade fan for the 6 cyl.

 

[addo]

Here, it's pretty common to trim away the entire setback portion you refer to. Also on the Comet stone guard panel it obscures the lower 5½" of airflow, so you can cut two large openings in it behind the bumper to improve this. A little mesh is worth considering to protect from rocks flying up.

Cheers, Adam.

 

[hotrodbob]

Is the Falcon different? I put a 3 row '64-5 Mustang unit and it just bolted in with no mods.