Topic: 1968 J code radiator

[3ponies]

What radiator is correct for a 1968 GT/CS j-code, with 4spd. trans., San Jose. Marti report does not specify HD or extra cooling.

[RoyceP]

Does it have air conditioning?

What radiator is correct for a 1968 GT/CS j-code, with 4spd. trans., San Jose. Marti report does not specify HD or extra cooling.

[3ponies]

no air!

[krelboyne]

Does it have, or did it have the two block of plates for use with a 20 inch radiator?

[3ponies]

Yup, but I do not know if they were original to the car. What would be determing factor between 20" and 24"?  Were 24" defined as extra cooling or HD cooling? Would it be incorrect if I went with a 24 inch?

[krelboyne]

Both of my J code 1968 cars came with 20 inch radiators.
GT/CS - no A/C and automatic. XR7 - no A/C and 3 speed stick.
Both of these cars will have 24 inch radiators when completed. Correct for me.

[3ponies]

Thanks Scott. I'm guessing mine was 20 inch also, assuming the block offs were original.

[Bob Gaines]

The 24 inch radiator is going to give a vastly superior cooling capacity . Nothing ruins a car day like a over heating engine and puking coolant all over. FYI the HD cooling package came on all 68 J code GT350's regardless of if A/C equipped or not. So it was not that uncommon to see the 24 inch radiator on a non A/C J code car . Just sayin.

[3ponies]

I hear ya! I was just trying to make sure for a concours driven correct car, Thanks for your info.

[Bob Gaines]

I hear ya! I was just trying to make sure for a concours driven correct car, Thanks for your info.

It is a decision that you will have to decide makes the best sense for you. For instance if you don't have any overheating problems with the small radiator why go to the extra expense for replacement. If you are having overheating problems it may make sense .Since it is not that out of the ordinary it would not typically be subjected to additional scrutiny. It should get a pass until Marti reports are required to substantiate all aspects of the cars entered. FYI Marti reports are not available for 65/66 so I am not sure if the report would ever be used as a requirement since it could not be applied equally across the board. Just my thoughts,others may have different.

[3ponies]

Am I correct in assuming the Marti would list the rad as extra cooling, or H.D, if the rad was 24". Thanks all, for your info, amazing!!!

[Bob Gaines]

Am I correct in assuming the Marti would list the rad as extra cooling, or H.D, if the rad was 24". Thanks all, for your info, amazing!!!

The Marti is going to mention extra cooling or HD if the radiator is the 24" on a 68 J code. If not mentioned in that way typically means it gets the smaller radiator. Sometimes if it had A/C the Extra cooling or HD  may not be mentioned on the Marti because that A/C option typically gets the extra cooling package .