Hot Rods 32 Ford radiator mounting?

What are the options on mounting a 32 Ford radiator in a non 32 Ford? I know fabrication will be required but don't want to worry about radiator damage due to vibration. Some pics of what everyone is doing would be appreciated. This will be going on a 49 International KB truck. Thanks in advance!

 

is it using the 32 grill shell? or mounted into the KB nose?

 

Will be using 32 grill shell. Forgot to mention that.

 

Having all the information helps. HRP

 

I don't see it looking to good, just being honest. HRP

 

Sometimes you have to work with what you have. Do plan on mounting it a little higher probably.

 

Use the grille shell on your Model A and use the original International grille on the truck.

 

the originals sat on 1/8/" rubber pads with bolts that had a spring between the nut and the foot of the radiator. it also used rods from the top of the shell back to the firewall. this allowed it to "float" as the frame flexed

 

Due to engine placement the original hood and grill will not work. Just going hot rod.

 

Will have the support rods for top just wasn't sure about securing the bottom. Thanks and I'll check that out.

 

You will need a mounting kit to mount the radiator to the frame and they are relatively inexpensive. and you will need the radiator to the firewall rods to hold the top of the radiator in place, you will most likely have to buy a couple of pieces of stainless rod, the '32 Ford rods will be too short unless you want the radiator shell to jean back.

You can use a tap & die to thread the ends. HRP.

 

Thank you. I think that is what I needed to see.

 

When using a part in an unconventional manner I always look at how the original was used and if I can I then try to replicate that as best I can in the new location. Has worked well for me in the past.

 

As an option, you can use a 1966 mustang v8 radiator. use 1x2 rectangle tubing for uprights and bolt the radiator to them. The uprights hold the grille shell and take the stress off from the radiator. Many hot rods have been built using this option.

 

Have you given any thought to channeling the cab over the frame? that would bring the cab down where the radiator would get closer to matching up with the cab. HRP

 

Already done too much floor work to back up and redo.

 

May look at that option.

 

In this video at .40 seconds and around 2 minutes there is some footage of an example.

 

If your frame doesn’t flex , you could possibly just use a 1/2” rubber pad and bolt, doing away with the original style spring and bolt mount, especially if you build a frame around the radiator.

 

I know you are not asking opinions ,but sorry man thumbs down on the grill choice. It’s putting you in the RR category. That grill is visually too small for a large truck . But as said the springs and rubber pads deal .

 

Not a show car but not a RR. Just building a little hot rod with what I have for my wife and I to get out and enjoy. Who knows I might find something else to use but right now it's what I have.

 

If you're planning on going topless (open hood) and given the original engine was a straight 6 with the present engine appearing close to the firewall and you are appearing to go fender less, can you "cheat" a little and move the KB grill forward a bit?

Admittedly, I like the look of the KB grill so have some bias and understand it's your project

 

The front of the hood makes the top of the grill. Engine too far forward for the hood to match up with grill. My original idea was stock hood with sides trimmed and no fenders but won't work now.

 

Eventually someone will offer up "build what you want". If you string masking tape from the firewall to the grille shell, it might help you determine the height you want. I get large cardboard boxes and cut up for that, hence cad.