Radiator shell fit

[Mark McCombs]

With my tub completed, I set the bonnet in place with the help of my son and was pretty pleased with the overall fit.
I just need to adjust the bonnet rest wood slightly and clamp the pieces in place in order to predrill and install the wood screws to hold their positions.

I have a hint (1/16) more gap at the front bonnet side fit to the rear of the radiator shell on the drivers side; The passenger side fits great.

Having never removed the radiator or shell, is there any adjustment that would allow the radiator shell to move back slightly on one side? How is it fastened to the radiator itself?

Thanks!

[bloodysalmon]

If the rad to the shell is fitted properly there NO room for movement what so ever. Everything moves or nothing at all.

[Steve Simmons]

The screws are countersunk flatheads, so they locate the shell positively to the radiator when tightened. Chris is right, you have to move the entire assembly. The stays will adjust the top. The bottom has a tiny amount of wiggle room just because of slop in the holes, but not much.

[Mark McCombs]

Chris and Steve-

Thanks for that; I'll limit the adjustment to the forward/backward movement of the bonnet panels, the side stay rods, and if needed, move the tub slightly; It really doesn't need much, I was just looking for the easiest way!

I do think I'll need to loosen / remove the top Rad hose to do any rake adjusting with the side stay rods; That hose was installed in 1964 when I was watching the Mickey Mouse club.

[Mark McCombs]

After removing the shell, I found the right side radiator brackets that hold the shell were out slightly; bending them back to 'horizontal' (90 deg to the radiator side)bought me that 1/16" I needed. I'll get some pics.

This should be a big week, setting the bulkhead back on the car and installing all those bolts to hold it to the Tub.

Honestly, I am finally back to where I thought I was when I bought the car in 1999! (little did I know it needed a full tub rebuild)..Never again. I have a tremendous amount of admiration to anyone who has done this.