Big Block Radiator in a SBC?

[fine69]

I'm thrilled that my 17 year old son has shown interest in working with me on my 69 Vette. As soon as the snow stops this week, we plan to lift out the tired 350/350 to do a small overhaul. It will be all stock with only slight mods:

Edelbrock Performer RPM
Edelbrock Cam (duration 234/244; lift .488"/.510")
Edelbrock 600 CFM w/electric choke
Dynomax ceramic coated headers
Radiator (type to be determined)

So far the preparation has gone ok, with the exception that I snapped my darn fan shroud in half! (the radiator is coroded and leaks).

Not sure how hot the restored engine will run, but we plan to eventually replace the whole thing with a big block. I was hoping to get opinions whether it would be wise to go ahead and install a big block radiator (and shroud) now. Will the big block rads fit in the existing core support? Or maybe I should go with one of those aluminum radiators out there -- maybe they're good for both SBCs and BBCs??

Thank you.

 

[Paranoid]

I don't see why not. That's what the previous owner did to my SB. Had a '73-74 radiator in it. In '73 & 74 all the radiators were the same 27". That's what I upgraded when I swapped in my BB, only it was a DeWitt's aluminum 27" with dual Spal elec fans.

 

[fine69]

Thanks for the reply. I've seen your web pages and your work has been an inspiration! You have one beautiful machine... superb work.

Ralph

 

[norvalwilhelm]

When I swapped the small block for a big block I went with a 3 inch core aluminum rad and it fit without a problem.
I would go the biggest and best rad you can afford and be done with cooling problems.
I also like electric fans so i don't have to deal with the shroud. It makes for a cleaner installation and when the A arms need replacing or removal it is so easy without that shroud