Packard Forum Index » V-8 (1955-56)

Hey all,

My 56 Clipper’s radiator is starting to leak. What are my options. I’ve heard reconditioning is pricey, are there other alternatives I can use?

Thanks,

Stu

Aside from having yours repaired or recored there are not many options. Here is one possible and maybe a slightly less expensive solution as long as you are not worried about authenticity and do not forget about the bolts. I see a mention of new brackets and fabrication was needed so maybe a personal message to Marvin would get some more details on those and the hose.

As to the lower hose fit issues mentioned, I wonder if the standard shift lower radiator hose (Napa NBH 7371) would work with the removed trans cooler. With the bottom connection being a few inches from stock location I cannot say.

Be careful if removing the trans cooler. As I understand, driving in fair weather with the converter locked up is probably fine, but extended city or hilly driving would not be recommended with the cooler missing.

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Very valid point. If I read what he did correctly, after removing the factory cooler he used the one built into the Ford radiator but if you get a radiator without a cooler be sure to keep the factory unit or add something else. One of the air cooled types mounted in front of the radiator or in some other place that will get air flow will work

Here’s the radiator number, if this helps.

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