subject: How To Install A New Radiator In A 1957 Chevy Truck [print this page] If you own a 1957 Chevy truck that has a faulty radiator, it might be just time to change the radiator. For a successful installation of a new radiator in a 1957 Chevy Truck, you will need the following items.
A pan where the antifreeze in the old radiator will spill out
About two gallons of antifreeze for the new radiator
New hose clamps that attach the radiator to the engine
A Socket set
A wrench
Screwdrivers
A fan spacer the radiator (Preferably the 1 inch Aluminum)
Razor knife for cutting the hose to required length
To start off, you will need to remove the hose clamps that are attached to the radiator; this is done through loosening of the nuts provided by the radiator. When you loosen the lower part of the radiator, ensure that the pan is below the radiator as the antifreeze will start draining in it. Next remove the top hose by unscrewing the hose clamps.
When you have removed these, remove the screws that hold the radiator in place. Removal of the old radiator should start with the unscrewing of the three small nuts at the bottom and the two nuts at the top. When you have secured it in place, ensure that you get a gasket sealer that helps in avoiding leakage of radiator fluid.When applying the gasket sealer, ensure that you clean the surfaces that you are to apply well and that these surfaces are dry before the sealant is applied.
While doing this, it is a good time to check on the condition of the water pump. Since it comes cheap, it is advised that you change it also as it will help you in preventing any future mishaps. It is good that you take a measurement of the fan spacer distance so that you can be able to gauge the distance that the new spacer will require.
When this is selected, you should integrate the Trans cooler which is placed on the frame of the old radiator and helps in the placing of the new radiator. This is an important feature as it helps with further cooling of the engine.
Reattach the new radiator following the directions followed in the removal of the old radiator. Fasten the nuts as done during the removal starting with the bottom and finishing up at the top. Using the razor knife, cut the hoses to the exact point where they fit and attach them and screw in the clips. Finally, fill up the radiator with the antifreeze and crank up the engine.
