Originally Posted by Tempest67 (Post 8657484)

Thanks Russ, I will keep that in mind, but won't worry about that til it is on the road, in the Spring, I hope.


Now the Rad Cradle, I have seen some designs that seemed like a lot of work, so I was trying to find the simplest way of doing this.

I started with the 19 x 22 rad (I will need to take it to a friend to get the lower outlet turned around and welded, - aluminum) and placed it on an L shaped piece of steel. Measured the height I needed for the rad to fit, and then cut the original rad cradle and welded it to the L bracket

I then cut 2 pieces of 4 X 4 steel tubing, lengthwise, to make 2 U shaped pieces. They were then tacked to the frame, just clearing the steering box. I knew if I just cleared the steering box it would fit , thanks to this website, and I can always shim it up if I need to. (but not down)

After installing 2 rubbers on the L bracket, and trimming it to allow another 2 inches of air flow, the fenders and hood were attached and I placed the rad in it's spot.

All lined up fine. I did add 3 small bolts to attach to the upper frame of the rad, but not sure if I will use that, or bend up some metal and add some upper rubber pieces. will be determined at final assembly.

I also ovaled the 2 holes on the top of the U brackets to allow for front to back adjustment of the rad cradle.

There is no right way or wrong way, this is just what I decided to do

see pics below

Originally Posted by joedoh (Post 8661374)

yep, know that process well, my wife sees a truck all put together and the next day all blown apart again and says "I thought it was done!"

looks like a solid front mounting!

Originally Posted by Tempest67 (Post 8668278)

Well, the project just became more expensive, and it's my own fault.

I purchased a SBC with vortec heads from a guy last year, he said the motor ran well, but he is getting a Big Block for his El Camino. I went to his place, saw his car, and his Dad's El Camino parked beside his, and I agreed to buy the motor.

So, now, a year later, my friend tells me to open up the motor, and we will have a look inside and reseal it.........guess what???? bad news.

I know, I know, I should have taken a head off before I bought it, but I wanted to believe this guy and I really wanted this motor,

So, now I am in the process of disassembling the lower end, to see if it is any good, and I will be looking for some heads......or maybe a complete motor if the block is cracked too........

Please don't beat me up too bad, I have been kicking myself since Saturday and I am not over it yet...........

Ahhhhh.......... "Serenity Now"