Got a '50 Ford w/ a BBC and the old 2" thick radiator just isn't gonna cut it. Who has had a customer radiator built for them and who did it?? (if you were happy). I'd love to find someone in middle or west TN, so that I could take my old one to them and they'd have the correct measurements. thoughts???
Yes, I had a custom AL radiator built for Big Olds almost five years ago now and it came out awesome. A local radiator shop did it for me. They specialize in ones for race cars and came highly recommended by friends. I didn't want the exact same shape as the original as it was kinda high and had an arch shape to the top of it. I asked them to make it flat on top and flush with the front. They did all the measuring. Came out perfect.
I had to add a bigger radiator in my '52 Chevy to deal with the 327 swap. I used Portell's Radiator in Missouri. A four-row radiator ran $325-350. I've been pleased with mine, and it fit perfectly. They can be reached at: http://www.portellradiator.com/. They can do aluminum, as well.
If you want to stay in TN you might want to try Walker in Memphis: http://www.walkerradiatorworks.com/ I personally use Griffin Radiator in Piedmont SC, really nice folks: http://griffinrad.com/ Love those "Bullet-nose " Fords, keep that '50 going!!!!!
My guy in NJ builds totally custom radiatiors. Brass and copper (old school!) He has you choose the core, how many rows, stagger, or straight, inlet and outlet size, and location. Trans cooler, fan sensor bung, AC condensor, or not. Completely new, including brackets and tanks. He ships everywhere, so for a true custom job, it's worth it. I've had him do at least 6 jobs for me, and my customers. CARS, in Lacey township, NJ. Boss is Chuck, tell'em Mark at Custom by Flash sent you. http://www.customautoradiator.com
I am a happy user of Portell from DeSoto Mo. I run a flathead, which I have always heard was hard to cool. Mine runs 170 all day. Reasonable cost, good quality, nice looking radiator.
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