Replacement 1926 Model T chrome radiator shell?

[oldmotorsguy]

I just bought a 1926 Model T Ford Touring, and while it is in pretty good condition overall, the chrome radiator shell is pretty beat up, and could use re-plating.

Rather than take this thing to a body shop (my sheet metal skills are pretty shabby), and then have it chromed, is there anybody out there that knows where I can get a replacement? I think the body work/plating option on my original shell will probably run at least $400, maybe more.

There has to be a less expensive alternative, right guys?

 

[J Franklin]

Go to a few auto swap meets or join a club in your area and network.

 

[tmodelman]

Authentic reproduction for Model T radiator shells aren't made today.

Speed shops carry chrome hot rod type for the low radiator T, but fit to original radiator isn't proper.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Ford-Model-...Parts_Accessories&hash=item3f2fb2d9d4&vxp=mtr

The best advise was given, shop for a better original at swap meets or eBay, the original high radiator shell for the Model T '26-'27 is nickel plated over brass, not chrome.

Buddy just had an original repaired, I sold to him for $80, needed some metal work, but came out nice! Cost $500 for the new nickel plating and dent, braze repairs, polishing and plating to my old shell.

 

[redmodelt]

You can do up a nice steel shell for plating. The original "NICKLE" plated shell was brass not steel. I don't know the current cost for plating but I do know it isn't cheep.

 

[Atwater Mike]

Can anyone tell me the overall height of a '26-'27 T shell, from its feet to the top center of the shell?
I understand there's 'short' and 'tall'...but can't find any numbers! Thanks...

 

[t42]

My '26 high radiator is 21" from the mounting flange to the top. On a high radiator the core or exposed part of the radiator is 18-3/4" roughly, and 17" on a low style radiator core.