31 Radiator Shell

TinCup

TinCup

Well-known member
Well after a few more years than I wanted to wait I finally found a 31 shell that I could use for my late 31 coupe. It's always had a 30 shell on it and something I grew tired of explaining. I found this shell on the bay and after a little spit and polish I mounted it today. My thanks to Jim at Olympia Speedsters for the fine stainless steel repair.
 

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What extent of repairs did he do? Did he weld up that crack with a TIG?
Any details how it was done?
Pictures?
By the way it looks terrific on your Model A! :)
 
Yes i would like to see a picture of the repair too. thanks , they split most if not all the time on the lower sides and below the crank hole bottom V in shell].
 
I have the opposite problem, I have a 31 grill on my 30 pickup. You inspired me to correct mine. Nice job.
 
Here are a couple of after repair pictures to compare with the before pictures. Here also are the steps used for the repair.

"I repair these frequently by first aligning the cracks to minimize the metal finishing later. Then I TIG them, using an .035" dia. filler rod with good color match to the orig. stainless. This also requires extreme cleanness on both sides and a means to keep oxygen away from the back side during welding. After welding, I metal finish and dress and polish, leaving a strong repair with perfect appearance."

Even with the size of our local group no one had a resource for this type of repair.
 

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Looks good!

Quote: "A means to keep oxygen away from the back"
I've heard that you can build a box around the repair area and pipe in pure argon so the back side is flooded with gas, then the front is TIG welded.
As an alternative, I believe there's a product called "silfloss?" which somehow rids the backside of oxygen.
Can you give us any clue or details on this area?
I have a shell to repair & believe I have the right equipment but your tips could be a huge asset in getting this right ;)

Thanks for any & all info ..regards Craig.
 
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