32 v8 radiator install small problem

V

va t

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Original (to my knowledge) 32 v8 radiator contacts crank bearing on front crossmember. Bottom tank and steel strap are not notched in center (early style) and I assume I have a late tall crank bearing. Can I go from 1/8" rubber pads under radiator mounting tabs to 1/4" without having problems fitting hood? Or should I modify the crank bearing which is nicely finished (or so I thought). Any knowledgable suggestions appreciated.
 
Raising the radiator will cause a pie shape gap at the back edge of the hood panel and the cowl. This pie shape gap shows up on many cars for a variety of reasons. It is also very difficult to remedy as it requires lowering the radiator or raising the cowl. If you are lucky enough to have a good gap at the back edge of the hood then change out the crank bearing. I have fought the pie gap battle myself and it ain't fun or easy.
Just an opinion
 
The early '32 hand crank bearing was the carryover Model A part which has a lower profile and should clear the bottom of the radiator. Floyd's counsel regarding the creation of hood fit problems by raising the radiator is spot on.
 
Thanks for suggestions. It doesn't make sense to possibly complicate later hood fitment problems. Can anyone tell me the overall height dimension of the smaller crank bearing?
 
I believe I have one that I can find that has the upper part for the crank cut off... so usability would depend on whether you would get out the crank or call AAA when your battery dies! I'm a crank guy, so I'd have to swap you for the one that doesn't clear on yours.
 
Thank you Bruce for the offer. But I restored/repaired two other crank bearings today so have the part needed. The one that I repaired had been trimmed of the upper part but is now complete again.
 
The overall height of the early version (a carried over Model A part) is 1 15/32 and the later version such as yours is 1 31/32" in overall height. In other words, 1/2" shorter.
 
You're welcome!

I noticed that both Mac's and Snyder's carry a reproduction of this '30-early '32 hand crank guide for about $12.
 
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