ERA radiator question....

[Melzer]

Bob,

After looking at some older ERA's radiator mounting points, I noticed that some earlier cars (lower 400's?) had the radiator mounted at (2) points. In the later ERA's, the radiator is tab mounted in the center with what appears to be a clevis or cotter pin. This center mounted tab duplicates the original CSX's. Can you shed any light on this?

I'm looking into an older ERA with the (2) mounting positions. How much of a job is it to change the mounting to the center tab/pin design?

I have attached examples of each for others that are interested.

Thanks..........Mel

(ERA older)




(ERA newer)



(CSX 3xxx)

[Pete C]

Mel,

I own ERA 004 and recently switched from the old 2 point mount to the center mount radiator. The switch was not too difficult and the newer Griffin aluminum radiator cools a lot better than the 20 year old original that it replaced. Finally, while I did not find it terribly difficult to switch, I must admit that I had the help and guidance of Pat Buckley who has forgotten more about all aspects of auto care and driving than I'll ever know!

Good luck, Pete C

[Bob Putnam]

Mel,

Most of the work is just bolting in new parts, but the center shroud (that the tab bolts to) is fastened to the cowl inner panel. That process requires drilling some hole (hopefully not going through the outer body ) and installing some threaded inserts. If you like to work on your back, with your head inside of the nose opening, it's great fun.

[Melzer]

Pete,

Thanks for the heads up on the radiator mounting. Sounds like you had an easy time with the switch.

Bob,

Is it necessary to replace the old radiator with the newer Griffin unit to make the change? Can you recall when ERA changed to the center mount?

Thanks guys....

Mel

[Bob Putnam]

Mel,

Your old radiator will need a new top with a single pin mount. The pin might be the biggest "problem" since the pile of pins we have are all aluminum.

The top shrould should fit with some minor modifications. I'm a little worried that the two nutserts we use in the inner panel may not be adequate for the extra weight of the brass radiator. I would put an intermediate piece in that was fastened to the glass with 4 bolts, and bolt the shroud to that.

[Melzer]

Bob,

I guess a new Griffin aluminum unit would be the way to go then......

Can you give me an idea what it will cost for parts including an aluminum Griffin purchased from ERA?

Please choose only (1) from column A or B

A B
$600-800 $1,000
or
Apply for Home Equity loan

Thanks........Mel

[Bob Putnam]

Mel,

I'm pretty sure that it's a column A deal, but e-mail Bryan (brybdp@aol.com) for a firm amount. I only spend the money - I don't take it in.

[Melzer]

Bob,

Atta-boy Bob.....

I had confidence that i would get a most direct and honest response from 'ya....

Thanks.........i will mail the (?) directly.......