radiator issues

not that old

Junior Member
I have a 1939 coupe deluxe that has a 1949 flathead 8BA motor,
I would like to replace the existing radiator. Not sure if I should go with the 1939 radiator that goes with the body or a 1949 radiator that goes with the engine. any ideas?
 
definitely stick with the radiator that goes with the body especially since there were a lot of body changes in 1949. Hose arrangements will probably be similar but radiator size and shape may be way off for a '39
 
I've got an 8BA in a 38 PU with original radiator with thermostats fitted.
Runs at 180 degrees. So as long as original radiator is clear of crap it will do the job without any mods required if fitting a different radiator.
Phil NZ
 
I have a '39 Deluxe Fordor with a 59AB. When I started working on the car 19 years ago, I had the radiator rodded and re-soldered. This worked fine until about 2years ago when it started to leak at a number of the seams. I was moving to AZ and knew I'd be driving it in the heat. So, I opted for the Walker radiator that's made for the '39. I also have Skip's pumps. So far, never goes over 180 here in the desert.

Dick.
 
thanks for all the advice, my concern was that since the 8BA motor is aprox 20 hp more than the original ...i wasn't sure if the 1939 radiator was able to provide enough cooling area. for the bigger engine
 
thanks for all the advice, my concern was that since the 8BA motor is aprox 20 hp more than the original ...i wasn't sure if the 1939 radiator was able to provide enough cooling area. for the bigger engine

I think your 39 holds 22 qts. of water. How much does the 8BA hold?
 
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