Happy Holidays to everyone. I have a 73 small block and when I bought it there was no radiator shroud. I was able to find a shroud on ebay and when I brought it to my mechanic to install he had a hell of time trying to get it to fit. At first he thought the radiator wasn't from a 73 and then he checked it against his 73 and found it was the radiator supports were from a model after 73. We suspect that whoever put the car together at some time just used what they had around and put a post 73 supports in; a good reason why they never put in the shroud. Does anyone have a parts 73 that would like to sell me the radiator supports. New they go for over three hundred; looking for a deal. Anyone out there?
Marty

 

And a Happy holiday to you Marty73, There are no deals to be had, just buy the 73 supports and then it will be easier from then on, if you do as the last owner and just put in what you have left over you only cost yourself more time and money in the long run. Does your car run hot? You also need a chin spoiler and proper fan shroud seals around the radiator for the car to get enough cool air to keep it in range. And last, get yourself a repair manual, you'll be happy after you save a few hundred bucks.PG

 

Hi pg, I think your right; I kind of came to than conclusion myself. It doesn't run hot at all but it just looks wierd without a shroud and I'm sure it would help cool it more in the summer. I did buy the seals and they're already on the shroud just waiting for the new support. I'm having some body work done and just sent the 69 side pipes and rear bumpers to Texas to be replated. Sooo I'm getting in deep and thought I could save a few bucks. The manual idea is really good and I think I will invest. I really enjoy your postings, are you a mechanic?
Marty

 

Another option if you aren't concerned about originality is to put an electric fan on. No shroud required. Might be cheaper than the supports.