Thread: best '39 Ford standard radiator??

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After several posts about cooling and cooling fans, I realized that I probably need to address the fact that the Mustang radiator in my '39 standard isn't sufficient and I need to go with a direct replacement radiator. Even with a cooling fan I'd feel more comfortable with more volume. Any suggestions? Thanks in advance, Rod

I haven't worked on a '39 standard so don't know precisely, but I'd guess that part of your problem could be that you don't have the original baffling that Ford built on to the stock radiator. I've got a '37 standard one in my accumulation pile that has baffles on sides and bottom to help direct nearly all of the air coming through the grille through the core. I'd suggest you try to see how a stock one is configured and work toward that.
On my '39 deluxe I went with an aluminum replacement that fit like a glove and had all the correct attachment points. But a deluxe is different from a standard, so can't speak to that. The copper/brass replacements, such as Walker or Brass Works are pretty spendy, but also very high quality/reliability. Don't know if they come with any baffling.....again, you need to check that.

Hi Bob, and thanks for the thoughts. I think there is something to the baffle thing at that. I have a bottom one and was thinking about building one for the top. Thanks again, Rod

Just posted this on another thread, try Portell radiator in Desoto Missouri, great looking radiators, he makes custom shrouds if needed and prices are good and you can talk to the guy who actually will make your radiator, he offers almost everything and will custom make them for almost the same costs.