PINTO CAR CLUB of AMERICA

Shiny is Good! => Your Project => Topic started by: Crazy Lacy on May 22, 2018, 10:31:09 PM

Title: I see web sites that sell radiators for 75 to 80 Pinto
Post by: Crazy Lacy on May 22, 2018, 10:31:09 PM
Will they fit my 72 runabout? The bottom hose connection looks at an angle.


https://www.partsgeek.com/f49ztr3-ford-pinto-radiator.html
Title: Re: I see web sites that sell radiators for 75 to 80 Pinto
Post by: Wittsend on May 23, 2018, 11:25:04 AM
The radiator at the linked site is a 20" radiator.  The 71-73 Pinto's only came with 17" radiators. The hose connections are not too much of an issue because one can always run flex hoses but the radiator is over 3" too wide for the opening.


Is there a workaround? Yes..., maybe. When my '73 Wagon went from a 2.0 to a 2.3 Turbo I opted for the larger radiator.  It involved cutting the radiator cradle and then moving the mounting points (overlapping for strength) and welding them into place. I believe I had to drill new holes on the radiator flange to match the somewhat different point on the repositioned cradle. I also relocated the battery to that front corner and thankfully the tray "just" fit. See pictures.
Title: Re: I see web sites that sell radiators for 75 to 80 Pinto
Post by: Crazy Lacy on May 23, 2018, 05:03:05 PM
Thanks Wittsend, Who knew, you did, THANKS!!!
Title: Re: I see web sites that sell radiators for 75 to 80 Pinto
Post by: Crazy Lacy on May 23, 2018, 10:11:46 PM
is the right Radiator from a 75 and up pinto??
Title: Re: I see web sites that sell radiators for 75 to 80 Pinto
Post by: Wittsend on May 24, 2018, 01:47:25 PM
The actual year of mine, I don't know. I was only going by size when I purchased it (Pick Your Part). But there were only two sizes that I know of, so I'd be inclined to say yes mine is likely a 75-80. Some of the later cars still ran a 17" (maybe the '74 because it was 2.0 and 2.3???)  I remember seeing a Pinto with the 20" cradle opening, a 17" radiator and plate to compensate for the difference.
Title: Re: I see web sites that sell radiators for 75 to 80 Pinto
Post by: Crazy Lacy on May 24, 2018, 02:21:54 PM
Thanks you,
Title: Re: I see web sites that sell radiators for 75 to 80 Pinto
Post by: Julee on September 21, 2018, 11:53:50 AM
Thanks Wittsend, Who knew, you did, THANKS!!!