69 350 Radiator Support Frame

[Driftwood]

My next project-- fix the radiator and the support frame. The bottom of the frame is basically rusted out and the passenger side lower radiator bracket is gone. The radiator lower neck was actually resting on the sway bar, which cracked the neck and caused a slow antifreeze leak. I put some wooden shims under the radiator to take the pressure off the neck. I'd hate to have that neck break off on the highway! I plan to pull the radiator, get the neck resoldered, and also replace the support frame.

My radiator looks brass, even though according to what I've read 350 4 speeds w/o AC originally came with aluminum radiators. The support frame also matches the pictures for the brass radiator support. Because it's so rusted, I would assume this is the original radiator support frame.

Question 1: Am I taking the right approach in just fixing my radiator, as opposed to buying a replacement aluminum radiator? I know aluminum has better cooling and is lighter, but for cruising around my current radiator seems adequate.

Question 2: I see there are two different radiator supports available, depending on whether you have the aluminum or brass radiator. I guess I'll buy the one for the brass radiator, unless someone thinks there's a reason to buy the other one. I assume my radiator wouldn't fit in the other support frame. I'll also get two new lower brackets and a new radiator support seal.

Quyestion 3: I also see there's a small right angled bracket available that goes somewhere near the middle of the lower support frame. It takes two bolts, one going to the front of the car, and one up towards the radiator. I don't have that piece, so guess I'll order that too. To what two places does this bracket connect? The car frame and the radiator frame?

Any other tips or suggestions are of course greatly appreciated.

Thanks,
Andy

 

[69MyWay]

There are big block and small block style core supports. You need to get the one that fits your car. I suggest a new radiator as when they get older they loose the ability to cool as they get plugged, etc.

I don't know about the bracket you mentioned unless it is for the shroud.

Good luck!