View Full Version : Radiator Aluminum Fit
What are you all doing about the gaps between the frame and side radiator aluminum?
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=219522&d=1759084942
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=219523&d=1759084942
PNWTim
09-28-2025, 02:15 PM
If I recall correctly, those side panels are a little deceiving in that they don't lie flush with the frame for part of their length. I haven't reinstalled mine yet but I think they only rivet into steel on the lower section then transition to the aluminum contact you show in your photos.
If I recall correctly, those side panels are a little deceiving in that they don't lie flush with the frame for part of their length. I haven't reinstalled mine yet but I think they only rivet into steel on the lower section then transition to the aluminum contact you show in your photos.
That's what it looks like to me, too. Thanks, Tim.
Dave
wedel456
09-29-2025, 03:10 PM
@papa, every build, including mine, have gaps on both sides of the radiator towards the car side of the radiator rails. I have my panels coated black and you really cannot tell there is a gap there unless you are right on top of it - which really would not be an issue either way once the hood is on the car.
michael everson
09-30-2025, 04:40 AM
BTW don't forget to trim all of the aluminum that hangs down below the frame. You will thank me later. It interferes with the opening of the hood.
Mike
BTW don't forget to trim all of the aluminum that hangs down below the frame. You will thank me later. It interferes with the opening of the hood.
Mike
Mike,
Are you suggesting the areas circled in red be cut out to to just where the frame sits?
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=219619&d=1759253668
Dave
wedel456
09-30-2025, 01:16 PM
Are you suggesting the areas circled in red be cut out to to just where the frame sits?
Yes, that is correct. The panels should be flush to the radiator frame rails.
PNWTim
09-30-2025, 08:40 PM
Well, that's news to me and here I am with freshly powder coated panels :mad:. I guess better to know now than later.
flight_83
10-01-2025, 04:22 PM
Correct me if I’m wrong but swear I’ve seen people just open up the opening on the underside of the nose itself to open more vs cutting the radiator aluminum.
michael everson
10-02-2025, 04:28 AM
Flight 83 you have to do both. I have built a dozen so far.
Mike
Panels are trimmed...
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=219650&d=1759365403
I also saw this picture from another builder posting about a brake upgrade yesterday that shows the open trimmed hood and panels pretty well.
https://thefactoryfiveforum.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=219623&d=1759297250
Without trimming the panels, it looks like you'd need to trim a lot more from the nose.