Do My 1974 Ford F100 360 Windsor Need A 3 Or 4 Row Radiator?

Question

I have leaks in my pickup truck radiator. It is located near the engine. A 5.9L 8cyl. I have puttied the thing all over. It is time I face the facts.I live in Richmond, VA, and it seems that everyone wants to charge me the price of a used car for a replacement. Where can I find a cheap used radiator and how do I know whether to get a 3 row or 4?

Answer 1

Likely that either one would work (fit) but the larger capacity would be better at cooling and be better if you use your truck for pulling a trailer, off road, or just a "spirited" driver.

Look inside the radiator, at the top core, you should see tubes from front to back, 2, 3, or 4 rows.

Keep in mind that the distance between the fan and the radiator is important to the cooling of the engine, and a shroud should always be used to increase air flow.

Answer 2

Added rows are for trucks that do heavy hauling.  If your just a normal truck guy who just helps people move once in awhile you can get away with a 1 row..   Good ol www.partsamerica.com is a good place...

http://www.partsamerica.com/ProductList....

Answer 3

You don't want to put a used radiator in as you would probably wind up with the same problem you already have. A 4 row will provide more cooling capacity than a 3 row. Changing the radiator out should be a pretty simple task in that era pickup. If you are mechanical, you should be able to do it yourself. I just checked a local parts retailer and you can get a new 3 row for your truck for $250 plus tax.