CRG Discussion Forum
Camaro Research Group Discussion => Restoration => Topic started by: RAS68 on June 10, 2020, 04:52:22 PM
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I have 1968 L34 with factory AC and TH400 trans. The car currently has an older replacement radiator that looks mostly stock in terms of tanks and brackets. It came with the car when I bought it 7 years ago. However, its leaking again and I have had it repaired twice. So I want a new or at least quality rebuild. I went to find one of the Harrison reproduction radiators with correct top channel and brackets etc. but found out that these have been discontinued at all distributors such as HBC or Rick's( darn it, my timings bad!). Where can I get a quality reproduction or even replacement radiator that looks correct and has all the right features ( 3 or 4 core, 23 ", proper brackets)? Any recommendations or direct experience would be welcome. This is such a great forum, I use CRG for everything from originality to restoration or just for entertaining reading about our favorite cars!
Allen
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Where is it leaking?
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I haven't found the leak point this time. previous leak was from the core. First leak was around the lower area where tank and core meet.
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Personally I would just try a different radiator shop - and have them fix what you have.
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Personally I would just try a different radiator shop - and have them fix what you have.
Like he said.
Possibly the older type shops with people who know how to do the repairs correctly...Joe
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Thanks guys I appreciate your inputs- but your not answering my question! I would like to hear from anyone who has recently purchased a good reproduction or close to correct replacement radiator ( not an aluminum replacement).
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You are not getting an answer to your question because no such thing exists. There are no good new brass radiators available anymore Only place I know that has a brass radiator is US Radiator. They look somewhat like a factory piece. The quality of materials and construction have something to be desired. I don’t know why those quality radiators from HBC went by the wayside. They seemed like a good alternative to the real thing (oem)? Like all good things...they come to an end. That is probably why the advice was to fix what you have rather than replace with inferior, which is all that is available these days.
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The price of used restorable rads should follow at swap meets and internet. I do my local meets and very rarely see first gen Rads anymore & often they are sold as original and are clearly replacements.
P.S. My Harrison Rad (1968 L35TH400) is at a local repair shop, I even photo copied the 1985 rebuild tag to show my repeat servicing. Hint, Keep your fluid levels correct. Seems basic but got me into a bit of trouble with the pass side tank. Crud $$.
Jim
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U.S. Radiator.
They have the only decent- closest to correct radiators out there.
That’s my $.02
Good luck!!
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In case you start looking for a used on that you can restore, here's what you're looking for. 4 row, 23". LH tank is marked "IL". RH tank is marked ""OM". If it's lucky enough to have the tag on it, it will say "UZ"
I've bought from US Radiator in the past also. They were pretty good & fit well....Joe
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That's all good feedback and advice. Thanks to everyone who replied. I will check out U.S. Radiator. I have had mixed results with the two radiator shops still open in my area. The best one, with lots of experience and a reasonable clean shop, went out of business about 5 years ago. But I may try to repair the one I have one more time.
Allen
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One More question for the experts - I believe the radiator is painted gloss black on 68's, is that correct?
Thanks
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One More question for the experts - I believe the radiator is painted gloss black on 68's, is that correct?
Thanks
Yes
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Glen-Ray Radiator. I've used them after multiple local shops proclaimed to comprehend restoration quality, which resulted in disappointment . Years ago, good techs were readily available. We had one as part of our bodyshop in the 90's. Radiators were not 100 percent gloss black as you see on a new factory car finish or wetsanded and buffed out show car. Interpretations of gloss levels depend on how much one sprays paint as a profession, and understands the levels. Glen-Ray had some Harrison cores and tanks in stock, you'd have to call for an update.
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I think I will try and find an original Harrison for a rebuild. I know its a long shot - because I need '68 BB radiator with OM tank code. I will try Geln Ray but does anybody know of any other sources or Camaro parts specialist that might have the tanks or a used radiator?
Thanks,
Allen
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https://www.yenko.net/forum/showthread.php?t=160807
Some radiator tanks. Cores are available in aftermarket.
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Bob Harris of Camaro Specialties may have what your looking for.
http://camaros.com/