Doc,
I think we found the BEST answer for you.
-Part Number NR318
-Description Radiator
-Make:FORD
-Core Size:19 1/4 x 26 1/4 x 2
-(3 Row)
-Inlet Header Size: 3 x 26 7/8-
-Outlet Header Size:3 x 26 7/8
-Inlet Connector Size:1 1/2 Top Right
-Outlet Connector Size:1 3/4 Bottom Right
-Type of Mount:Front Flange
-Oil Cooler:12 Transmission,Comments:
-TOC adapters included in kit; Brass Tanks with Copper Brass Core
-Radiator w/ 26 1/4" Between Sides
Two plans of attack:
Plan 1. De-solder the brackets from this radiator, flip them over, and bolt it in (almost all you need to do)
2. Take this radiator as-is, and make spacers to take up the space from your new, intact radiator to your existing support.
With Plan 1, the only hindrance would be the small bumps that are pressed into the L-bracket sides. These bumps act like and are shaped like gussets to maintain the 90 degree bend in the bracket. When placed on the normal side, the gussets don't interfere. When flipped over, the bumps will keep the flange from sitting completely flush. Remedy? Pound the bumps flat, and bolt it in!! Or, place a strip of 1/4" rubber between the core support and the radiator to take up that 1/4" difference, and distribute the clamping force.
With Plan 2, you would have to keep the radiator as-is (bolt flange on front of radiator), and use long bolts from the front of the radiator, through the spacers, and into the radiator core support. The spacers could be 3/8" ID tubing/pipe, or square tubing. This approach might require some trimming of the new radiator brackets.
I wish you could see my 1965, L6 240 with my new NAPA radiator installed (remember, I swapped my 65 brackets onto my new NR318 NAPA radiator). It makes so much more sense when you can SEE it. I went round and round with this problem before taking the approach I did. I could not have asked for a better fit and finish. It's essentially OEM now.
Even though 1965 core supports are different from 1966s, I don't think there are differences from one 1965 2WD radiator support to another. So, the width of your existing radiator should not limit your choices of new radiator width. Your radiator support has approximately a 27" wide opening. Your existing narrow radiator has a wide flange to fill the difference.
This would be the widest radiator possible, 3 row core, with the inlet and outlet in the correct spots.
Almost a slam dunk.
you crack me up, always with a very unique style and humorous point of view.
