Radiator Removal

 I'am fairly sure I have a leaky radiator, was wondering what the proper procedure to remove it and if I have to take off the hood?

  I just took mine out Yesterday. I understand that it is possible without removing the Hood. However I know that removing the hood is one of the easyest things you can do to a C3 and that it would be a real battle if you don't.  Just keep track of any Shims that are going to fall out when You loosen the Bolts . Plan on replacing the Seals that go around the Radiator and the Rubber Sockets that it fits into when it all goe's back togeather. Most People don't and then they get some Heating issues because the Air is going around the Radiator and not hrew it.

You should not need to remove your hood but having a helper is important. Not sure what your fan shroud is like but my guess is that its like whats on my 76. Not a lot of room to wiggle the radiator past it. You will want to remove the fan belts so the shroud can be moved back by the engine. Cover the radiator fins with cardboard on both sides to protect them while removing and installing. Also do a search, there are some posts on this. One other thing is to check the radiator support for rust along its bottom. suncountry2008-10-07 22:08:50

Thanks for the info, It is my day off and I quess the car did not want me just sitting around 

I agree with Suncountry's advice. Once you move the shroud back, the radiator should more or less slide out at the same angle as the rad support, which should definitely clear the hood.

Take it from Suncountry, he's right. I just replaced my radiator last year and it was a , but it was done and I fine the need for speed.

Make it easy on yourself, remove the hood, its easy and you can work faster without worrying about damaging your hood. Either way you do it, it will be much easier if you have a helper. Good Luck, Gene gs77vet2008-10-08 08:56:32

One thing I did on my 71 is pull the fan. Then you should then be able to pull the shroud right out. I didn't pull my hood off either. 

Got it out, had to do a little surgery on the AT lines since they would not break free so time for a little shopping, thanks for everyones suggestions!!!

If you need a little more room installing undo the top rad support bolts and tip it towards the front of the vette.