Topic: Aluminum Radiators
in Forum: C3 Cooling and Heating Systems
Already a Member?
Click Here to Login
Not yet a Member?
Click Here to Register for Free!
Lifetime MemberManteca, CA - USA
Joined: 11/20/2005
Posts: 3623
Vette(s): 1978,two tone,Metalic Rootbeer & gold
1975 L48 4 speed
[QUOTE=KDADDY79]Question is.....Does the hood have to be removed in order to change out the radiator?[/QUOTE]
Actually doesn't have to be, but it's a lot easier,... if you have the extra hands to help you lift it off. If you do, just give a little shot of spray paint on the bolts to positively mark their previous location before you remove them, and be gentle on the first lowering of the hood, once replaced, just to be sure you've nailed it (the previous location).
Jimmy B.
Just can't wait to get on the road again. 
Click to see larger views!
SPONSOR AD:: (Our Sponsors help support C3VR)
Thanks Ace!
I might just tough it out and leave the hood on. I'd hate to open up a can of worms trying to get the hood realigned correctly.
Now all I need to do is get off my rear end and order the darn thing!!! 
I didn't remove my hood and was able to remove and replace my radiator. No problem for me.
Did it by myself and didn't need any help.
Did it by myself and didn't need any help.
Steve, Lifetime Member #129
74 coupe 4 speed 350, 54K actual miles,
all original; paint, interior, engine,
split bumper. #'s match. 2nd owner, no stress cracks.
Done it both ways and hood off is definitely easier. That said, hood off is only easier with at least two and alignment takes a bit of practice even with making alignment marks.
Lifetime MemberPoquoson, VA - USA
Joined: 11/20/2004
Posts: 1023
Vette(s): 73 Conv, Blue-Green/White Top - 454, M21 - Dark Saddle Leather, Power Windows, A/C, Tilt/Tele, AM/FM St. (orig. and sounds like it too).#2 -- 2007 Coupe,3 LT package, Z51 option, Victory Red, Ebony Int. Clear Top.
I did it with hood off.. seemed akward with hood on. I ran a felt tip marker around the hood hinge and alignment went back easy... definitely need 2 to take off and on again...
Lifetime Member #86
USN 1966-1970
WestPac 67-68 Tet I&II
Featured in Corvette Enthusiast Aug 2007 "Shark Attack"
Blue Green *** 454,4 Spd, Dark Saddle Leather, A/C, AM-FM St. (orig), PW, Tilt -Tele Wheel"
(click to see a bigger image)
USN 1966-1970
WestPac 67-68 Tet I&II
Featured in Corvette Enthusiast Aug 2007 "Shark Attack"
Blue Green *** 454,4 Spd, Dark Saddle Leather, A/C, AM-FM St. (orig), PW, Tilt -Tele Wheel"
(click to see a bigger image)
Lifetime MemberHOWELL, NJ - USA
Joined: 5/18/2004
Posts: 6812
Vette(s): 1979, Targa Blue (72 Color), Pace Car rear spoiler, L88 hood, Dark blue factory interior, 525HP 406, HD 700R4, 370 gears,Steeroids, composite rear spring, TT IIs wrapped in T/A Radials.
Hood on by yourself is more awkward the shorter and weaker you are - the rad basically slides out at a similar angle to the hood when it's propped open - highly recommend removing the hood. Just score around the hinges for alignment to re-install. My hood has been on and off a dozen or more times - never damaged any paint...
LukesVette Homepage
Veteran of Operation Iraqi Freedom
101st Airborne(AirAssault!)
God Bless America
Support Our Troops 
The new aluminum radiator arrived. I'm hoping to start the install on it early next week.
2 Questions;
1) Is a 16 lb. radiator cap correct for a '79 C3?
2) Am I OK continuing to use a 180 degree T-stat?
P.S. I'll be replacing the seals around the radiator, too.
Lifetime MemberManteca, CA - USA
Joined: 11/20/2005
Posts: 3623
Vette(s): 1978,two tone,Metalic Rootbeer & gold
1975 L48 4 speed
I'm thinkin' ,.......yes and yes. And the air dam seals are a must. Careful when purchasing the cap. There are 2 types out there these days, vented and NOT. Ours aren't vented.
Jimmy B.
Just can't wait to get on the road again.
Click to see larger views!
Lifetime MemberApache Junction, AZ - USA
Joined: 10/15/2006
Posts: 285
Vette(s): 1982,150K,Renegade CFI,Hooker Side Pipes,85 fuel pump,Bilsteins,HD suspension, Aluminum radiator, SharkBar/w 5-Point Restraints. 3:73 gears coming soon.
Entropy
is the ebay company I got mine from - great radiator two years running now. I got the dual fan radiator and bought their wire harness kit. I initially hooked up the dual fans with the stock fan connections, but that melted the plug... when I installed the harness with all the relays, fuses and correct gauge wiring, the fans came to life and the CFM flow increased greatly!
Phill's Vette 2010-04-07 02:24:33
in Forum: C3 Cooling and Heating Systems
SPONSOR AD: (Our Sponsors help support C3VR)