7 replies to this topic

[Bismo]

I've only got a day or so to make a decision here but thought I'd see if anyone's got any advice re: replacing our '74 Monaco radiator. I do have a line on an old Modine radiator that sounds like the right deal, through radiators.com, though it's not overly cheap ($315). I'll pay the cash but since I'm separated from the car by 100+ miles I can't go quickly verify the measurements, does anyone have them handy or have any experience with either Modine or this site? (They seemed pretty good to work with over the phone.) We found listings for a Spectra rad that looked right but it's apparently not made any more.

Our other option is just re-coring the existing rad, which we can get done too of course but I'm checking the options. Thanks in advance for any input!

[76Bluesmobile]

Hey Bis,

I had difficulty with the radiator in my Monaco as I found three different options - you gotta know where the hoses connect onto the rad at. It is 1:00 AM right now here so I can't measure the rad right now, but I'll post the measurements you need and pics in the morning. I couldn't use the rad out of a Cordoba my parents own as the hoses connect differently even though both are small blocks and the rad from a big block has the hoses on the opposite side. If the tanks on the rad are still in good shape, you might consider the recore. If the metal is old and fragile, I suggest a good original or I'll post info to where my Dad bought a new rad for the 'doba. It isn't all metal like the originals but it fit.

Check on Wednesday afternoon for my pic and measurements.

[Bismo]

Thanks, Nathan! I know where the connections are (inlet top left, outlet bottom right); I think I know the right dimensions but just can't confirm it with my car or find anywhere that specifically mentions the original specs. The Modine rad I've got a line on is 19 3/4" x 27 5/8" x 1 1/4", which does exactly match a Spectra aftermarket radiator that apparently isn't available for ordering any more. So, just wanna make sure it matches the original. If you do get a chance to measure it's much appreciated!

[Shotgun Blues]

Funny...I had to replace Christine's radiator, because she had a pinhole leak across the top seam. The local Chrysler dealership located one for me fairly quickly.

[Bismo]

Yeah, I did call the local Dodge/Chrysler/Jeep dealer, no luck... said part had been discontinued. Will probably try and grab that Modine this afternoon, seems like the best shot!

[76Bluesmobile]

I guess my rad is a little larger than normal. It doesn't match the one in my folks 78 Cordoba. The Cordoba has a rad with similar measurements like the Modine Bis was talking about. The one in my Monaco measures about 30 1/2 inches wide bolt center to center (32 from bracket edge to edge), about 24 inches tall and with nearly 3 inch wide tanks. The rad in my 440 is thinner. Be sure to double check the measurements of the bolt holes. That is why I cannot use the small block rad from my parents Cordoba - the bolt holes do not line up, though everything else does.






Be sure to also check that the lower hose does not ride on the steering centerlink below. I had that issue - you'll need to trim about an inch or so off the hose to make it work. Good luck Bis.

[Bismo]

Nathan, thanks again for the pics, info and especially the effort! I'll let you know how it goes....

[Shotgun Blues]

Yep...when we swapped out the 400 with the 440 in the original Bluesmobile, we forgot to swap the radiators. She overheated the first time out. The radiator in the '74 Fury III was a dual core radiator. More coolant to prevent overheating.