Formed Relief

From BrassworksL


Ford had a die to stamp a concave relief in the sidewall.

Embossed metals are stiffer and stronger and you can used thinner materials saving cost.

We power bead roll form the relief and remove the fin material behind it so it looks more authentic

standard flat sidewall
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Is it stronger, or is it just cosmetic? Guess I'll never know...
 
2speed said:
From Brassworks

Is it stronger, or is it just cosmetic? Guess I'll never know...
Click to expand...


Prior to my order in Dec 2025 I called Brassworks with this question and was told it's cosmetic. If you intend to have the vehicle judged then go with this option otherwise it's not necessary.
 
If it adds stiffness to the radiator's core to minimize bending strains in the core, then it is important.
 
I think it's more of a marketing ploy.

Wouldn't you pay a little extra for a radiator that has a relief, versus a cheap chino radiator that does not have a highly NASA-approved, engineered relief.

I am just saying!
 
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2speed said:
What exactly is the formed relief offered on Brassworks Radiators?
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2speed said:
Is it stronger, or is it just cosmetic? Guess I'll never know...
Click to expand...

Bob Bidonde said:
If it adds stiffness to the radiator's core to minimize bending strains in the core, then it is important.
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The formed relief adds significantly to the lateral strength of the side radiator support pieces without any additional increase in the material thickness or gauge. Model A frames are very flexible and many saw continued use for many years on rough, rocky, muddy, terrible rural roads and trails. I would think ford easily and wisely added to the strength of these supports using the C-shaped reliefs to meet the common possible conditions at that time. The conditions a Model A most likely gets driven in today are likely significantly different than back in those days, but I would say the Brassworks is offering a good option for anyone who would like to go in that direction.

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If it was original to OEM parts during production then it has that type of value. If it adds strength then it generally adds longevity to the complete assembly. That also has value. Aircraft parts have a lot of rib type reliefs as well as lightning holes which form a ridge all the way around and give lighter weight and more rigidity to the assembly. It's up to the purchaser if they want to pay extra for originality and/or strength but at least they have the option to go the less expensive route if they have to. As long as the part works then it's considered good enough. Only time will tell if that's a good choice or not.
 
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Embossing metal with ribs or stiffening beads creates a stronger part from a thinner gauge of metal. Some comments are correct; it does make it stronger, it does make it look more authentic, it does take a little more time .
 
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