1970 C10 396 Install - Rad Hoses

[1970ChevC10]

I am dropping a BBC 396 into my 70 C10 that previously had a SBC 350, do I need new rad hoses and if yes how do I go about sourcing these?

[68Gold/white]

Well, first, what radiator are you using?
If it's a stock big block, ordering stock hoses should work. If not youwill need to know what the out let sizes are on the radiator, small block hoses might work.
The lower outlet on my 68 396 radiator is larger than the small block, beware

[1970ChevC10]

I have the 3 core from the SBC 350, was planning on going to a new 4 core. Thanks for the feedback.

[68Gold/white]

If you are going to try to run the stok radiator for a while, try the small block hoses. THe engine outlets are relatively in the same spots as the big block.

On my stock radiator, the lower outlet is larger, and it angles upward, about 30 degrees. The larger size outlet must have been done for a reason...cooling a big block...

[1970ChevC10]

Good idea - will probably go this route 1st, monitor the engine temp closely and then decided about the 4 core. Trying to avoid buying additional hoses.

[randy500]

Factory Radiator outlet sizes are the same for big and small block because the radiator is the same....3 core, 4 core radiators are just that, not specific to either engine, so just buy hoses for a big block.

[1970ChevC10]

Bottom hose is solved - Gates 20610. Top hose is not solved. Have tried 2 different Gates hoses with no success (20080 and 20607). Any suggestions before I just purchase a flexible hose? I do prefer the fitted hose.

[RustyPile]

Originally Posted by 1970ChevC10

Bottom hose is solved - Gates 20610. Top hose is not solved. Have tried 2 different Gates hoses with no success (20080 and 20607). Any suggestions before I just purchase a flexible hose? I do prefer the fitted hose.

I don't know if this will help.. I have a BBC in my 71 that originally had an I6... Now has a three row radiator.. Top hose is a Gates 20827.. Bottom is a Gates 19670...

[Ironangel]

I was able to use the small block radiator shroud by trimming some of the lip off. I trimmed the bottom just enough to clear the fan so it could be installed and removed without removing the fan. I used my rebuilt "Super-Turbo-350" and was able to use the same cross member in the same location. I was surprised at how much actually lined up and worked. I used the pre-72 big block stands with small block motor mounts and they worked perfectly, I used a large 1/2" grade-8 washer to span the larger hole on the stands. Those large holes actually allow you to adjust the motor to get clearance for the fan, the slip yoke on the tail shaft, and header or linkage clearance on either side. Pull them 7/16 NC bolts tight and its locked in...My factory 3-core radiator is still holding and keeping the 427 below 200*. My original set up is a long water pump which made the lower hose a little to long, an exacto-knife took care of that. I rotated the hose just a bit to clear the frame and get a better fit on the radiator. Good luck!

[1970ChevC10]

Thanks - going to try the Gates 20827. Fingers crossed. I will post a reply on some of the other hurdles on a different thread I started and will post the link here shortly.

[68is4me]

What set up for the alternator are you using?

You might have to lookup a hose that uses that style of setup. If you are using the stock short pump with all stock mounting then the stock upper hose should work. If using a newer style with a long pump you might have to try a hose from a new vehicle with a BB.

I always had problems finding a hose that would clear the alternator brackets.

[68is4me]

Here is a picture of my 68 with a factory setup. Gates p/n 20607

[1970ChevC10]

Originally Posted by 68is4me

Here is a picture of my 68 with a factory setup. Gates p/n 20607

Thanks 68is4me but I have 'tried' the 20627. Did not fit and perhaps to do with my non factory setup. It was too short. I have a 396 BBC from a 67 Chevelle, used POL frame stands and have used the front mounting holes and my original 3 core rad. The 20827 I have appears to work but I will have to cut about 2.5" off the end that slides onto the thermostat housing.

[70STOVEBOLT]

I used a Dayco E70392 on the top and did not have to trim it but I did have to adjust (turn) it until it cleared everything. All stock type set up here.

[1970ChevC10]

Thanks I will look into the Dayco.

[cangim]

I used a Napa 7459 for the upper hose. Seem to fit very well.

[70STOVEBOLT]

Originally Posted by RustyPile

I don't know if this will help.. I have a BBC in my 71 that originally had an I6... Now has a three row radiator.. Top hose is a Gates 20827.. Bottom is a Gates 19670...

Gates 19670 is a molded heater hose.