55.2-59 TF - Original V8 vs. I-6 Core Support Difference

[Dan in Pasadena]

I DID search and came up with nothing. I probably didn't know the right terms to use for the search.

I notice that factory original V8 trucks came with a...maybe 5"-6" bead-rolled panel across the top of the core support and that the inline six cylinder trucks had no such panel. I assume it was to cover the space when the radiator was moved closer to the mechanical fan? Makes me wonder how the V8 radiator is mounted if not to the core support as the six cylinder trucks?

My question (since my truck was originally a six cylinder) is how could I (should I?) duplicate the look of the original V8 trucks? What parts and modifications are necessary? Are needed repops available? Is it a big deal, or a "small potatoes" mod?

Thanks guys!

Oh and P.S: I saw a truck with dual factory horns the other day and I WANT a passenger side horn. Is a driver's side one the same with a different mounting bracket or a completely different horn?

[_Ogre]

58-59 trucks have the same core support for both I6 and v8 and same radiator location
big thing is front motor mounts, they are add ons riveted to the frame

roadkill posted this picture with stock v8 motor mounts in one of his trucks



this is my 59 panel with factory v8, other than the motor mounts it has this fan shroud
it is factory but looks like half of an oil drum



58 truk is also an original v8 truck



you will also need a v8 bell housing with the side mounts

[OrrieG]

55-57 had the radiator extensions. 58-59 kept the radiator on the support with the round shroud like orge shows. Here are the dwgs from the FAM. Could easily be made of flat tin, if you want the exact factory look you will need a bead roller.

[dicer]

Task force trucks from 55 to 57 the radiator support was moved back the 6 or so inches for V8 installations. On the 58 to 59's they didn't do that. Like was posted there was a metal shroud for the V8's on them.

[Katrina/10]

I learn something new every day here.

[gottwake]

I'm trying to buy a frame from choppinn block and they need to know if the truck was a stock V8 or 6 cyl...

So do I just need to look under and verify riveted engine mounts to confirm it was or was not a V8?

[paulspickupparts]

If it has not been subframed and the original VIN is still there that will tell you if it was an original V8 . The V8 mounts of course are another sign. The radiator stands are a different height and location on the V8 Trucks

[iceman4]

'57 original V8. Mine never had the cover, original has been hard to find. Don't know if anyone makes a reproduction.

[Daze57]

iceman4

make a cardboard template and make one out of 18-20 gauge sheet medal