How to change a radiator in a Ford Model A

Our 1930 Ford Model A coupe "Gandalf the Green" needs a new radiator (long story). This video shows how to change a radiator in a Ford Model A.
If you don't want your Model A to break down, just subscribe! www.youtube.com...
Tina's wardrobe provided by GopherWear.com- www.gopherwear...
"I AM THE WARRANTY" shirts- amzn.to/3zj7yZ1
How to buy a Ford Model A- • Ford Model A Buyer's G...
What motor oil to use in a Model A- • What motor oil is best...
How to shift the Ford Model A transmission- • How to shift gears in ...
How to check and change fluids in Model A- • How to check and chang...
How to lubricate a Model A- • How to lubricate a For...
How to do Model A front end alignment- • How to align Ford Mode...
How to set the timing in a Model A- • How to set Ford Model ...
How to properly adjust Model A brakes- • How to adjust Ford Mod...
Ford Model A daily driver- • Daily Driving a restor...
Why the Ford Model A is the best American car ever made- • They call it the "Best...
www.PaulShinn.us
"I AM the Warranty"
JJJreact
#paulshinn

[@quailstudios]

0:00 Gandalf recap 0:50 remove the hood 2:25 loosen hose clamps 3:22 radiator shell 5:05 old radiator out 8:24 new radiator in 12:43 she’ll back on 14:42 reinstall hoses 16:47 wiring 19:52 hood reinstall 21:12 tighten clamps 21:41 check for leaks

[@jamesjackson7463]

This video helped me immensely to swap out the radiator in my 1930 Coupe today. I followed it step by step with one exception. I put the hoses on my radiator and filled with water and ran it to operting temperatture before I replaced the grill and hood or rerouted the wiring. I did have to wait for the engine to cool down before finishing up but I preferred to have piece of mind that the replacement radiator was leak free before getting too far. The only suggestion I have is my wiring to the headlights had to be cut, there was no way I could see that the original wiring unplugs from the headlight, The originals, at least mine, would not let t the wires come apart from the headlight. I dissasembled the headlight and "no luck", the wires are hard wired to the socket. I had to cut the wires and connect with bullet connectors. Everything else was spot on! Thanks Paul!

[@bradleymckay365]

My wife works with me on every project we have and we were both watching this video smiling because we fully understand the joy of having a true partner in life and not one doing what they want and the other doing the same. Having a true partner is something you just don't understand until you experience it.

[@ModelA]

Amen to that

[@JM-fp6em]

Paul I noticed none of your tools say Dewalt or Milwaukee and have batteries, doing it old school perfect.

[@ModelA]

Keepin it real!

[@lodgers100]

I want to thank you Paul for all your Great videos. I also wanted to tell you that your quite a lucky guy to have such an enthusiastic, kind and helpful companion with you on your projects. I 'm sure you already know that. Take Care..👍

[@donnyblackburn5296]

As a disabled Vet I really can appreciate your videos Paul!!I have some helpers (who actually do most of the work) We are going ahead with your directions and get the radiator out and serviced or will have to replace it. I want togo through the carb while the radiator is out being fixed. The steering has way too much play and need to be tightened up. You are just what I needed!! Thank you.

[@ModelA]

Thanks Donny! And, thank you for volunteering to serve our country.

[@benedicttaravella7640]

thanks for posting this. I had one of the rods come loose after hitting a bump, falling on the fan which bent and went into my radiator, on my "31 Coupe. Now i need a new radiator, Still looking This video helped me remember the easy way to remove it.

[@ModelA]

Oh NO!!!

[@daviddoe2440]

For a more controlled pour for adding water or antifreeze, turn your bottle to the horizontal position instead of vertically. Enjoy a mmore controlled pour! If you have steady enough hands and great depth perception, go sans funnel! Taught to me by an old hot rodder!

[@richardfischer9811]

Thank you for yet another fun and educational video, Paul and Model T. I always learn something new from you guys. But this time I might have something to offer you as well. One of my very best friends (now deceasd) had grown up in the Model A era and had worked for a tractor dealer as his first job. What George told me was to smear a dab of grease in the radiator hoses and on the fittings so that the hose can slip on easily. Not only does it ease the hose into position, but it stops any little coolant leaks with minimal tightening of the hose clamps. As a plus, the hoses will easily slip right off in years to come. George told me that he used axle grease, but I have real water pump grease, so I use it.

[@ModelA]

Excellent tip! Thank you!!

[@BillGeurts2269]

Well done. Exactly the way I do it in every detail. Yes one person can deal with those nasty spring loaded radiator bolts, but more fun with two.

[@toddathey1235]

I learn something new each time I watch your videos. The soapy water on the hoses, and loosening the rods and then pull the radiator forward to release the front hood pin. Thanks for a new perspective.

[@ModelA]

Glad to hep!

[@ModelA]

I meant to type glad to help!

[@timnewman1172]

It may require an extra hand, but that is one of the easiest radiator replacements I have ever seen... I had to replace the radiator & water pump in my 1966 John Deere tractor, it was quite a bit more difficult!

[@angelhelp6819]

Don't forget the antifreeze make sure the hoses are not leaking and the radiator make sure there is does it leak when you're buying you one sometimes it could be defective

[@Lolo-mx4sc]

I find it easier to either put a scratch mark or a thin paint line that corresponds to the direction of the cotter pin hole for alignment. Also having the unpaid union member up top saying the hole is North or South let below person know when close to being correct. Next I remove the entire lower hose with connector to block in place so hoses stay in same position. The only hose clamp then to remove is the one at the radiator. Easier.

[@mackfisher4487]

Don’t feel bad about your radiator it gives you a teaching moment. An analogy, sometimes I managed to poke a hole in a radio speaker when the chassis is removed from the cabinet. Speakers seem to have a magnetic effect on tools on the workbench. Now I understand there is a correlation between radiators and speakers. Joking aside thanks for passing on your knowledge.

[@ModelA]

I have accidentally poked holes in speakers as well. That sick feeling you get is the same one you get when you prang a radiator!

[@freemansgarage]

I really appreciate your channel because a goal of mine is to daily drive a stock Model A. I've been slowing picking up bits of information over the years. You're the only channel I've been able to find that's niched down to the Model A & doing it well. You've motivated me to put another chunk of coal in the firebox & pick up the pace on this long term goal. Maybe this winter I'll have a fixer upper in my possession.

[@ModelA]

Nice!! I daily'ed a Model A for an entire year. Did a video about it. Put about 10K miles on it that year and had zero problems. Go for it!!

[@thesharkcom]

For the lower Rad bolts. I replace the rubber mounts with tire sidewalls and drill the hole a size smaller to hold the bolt as I start the nut on top. Thanks for the other assembly tips. always helpful. Stay well!!

[@ModelA]

Neat!

[@JDvintagemi]

Yet another great video! On my 30, I was able to disconnect the radiator shell from the radiator, and pull It far enough away to where I didn't have to disconnect any of the electrical. A friend of mine came over, we unbolted it and lifted it right out of the shell. I was hoping it would work that way considering I didn't want to take a chance on disconnecting any of my electrical, cuz I actually had it working really well at that point.

[@dalemettee1147]

I can't wait to see you swap out the wind shield. this car is a good example of getting things fixed. Hope you both had a good Thanksgiving.

[@ModelA]

Thanks, you too!

[@Dan-qy1rg]

Love these videos. I'm dealing with a severe cold, so I will keep it simple. Thanks Paul for all you do, and thank Model T for all she does. I hope you had a great Thanksgiving and a wonderful weekend.😰🙂

[@ModelA]

We home you get well soon!

[@Dan-qy1rg]

@@ModelA Thanks Paul, better today, Sunday!

[@craigpennington1251]

Great "how to do" video. Love to have one of these but too much other is going on. Thanks for posting this.

[@flyfliker]

Will b watching for radiatlor repair shop.

[@ModelA]

Coming soon!

[@jameswagner9356]

I now have a new Brass Works radiator for my 1929 Tudor. Looks like your instructions will work except the hood and radiator cap are different.

[@Bbbuddy]

Great video! Excellent idea to use locking pliers to hold the tabs in alignment. I found it easier to access the radiator mounting bolts if you take off the front splash apron first.

[@ModelA]

Great idea!

[@steveshoemaker6347]

Thanks awesome Paul Shoe🇺🇸

[@steveduecker9872]

Looks like fun! Numb fingers make it hard to work.

[@truthreigns7]

Great video. Paul you have a great helper

[@ModelA]

Thanks! The helper is worth more than the helpee

[@jmh119]

Well shoot. I learned some new things again! Thanks to you both for the video!

[@brianmatthews9697]

Good video. You're lucky that hood lined up. I've had fun with that. Many times I swap out those cotter key bolts for nylon self lockers. If you have to adjust it's a lot easier though there is not much movement down there. On the old style clamps I put a little silicone grease on the inside of them helps them slide and tighten evenly. Hope your holiday was good. Nice having a helper to get that hood off!

[@ModelA]

Thanks for the tip Brian!

[@buckhoward7285]

Great video, Paul. If you flip the bolt over it makes it easier for one person to do.

[@ModelA]

But what about the spring pressure pushing down on the tabs?

[@buckhoward7285]

@Paul Shinn I've not had any issues running them like this, and I will add it's users discretion to flip the bolt. I got tired of fighting with it by myself.

[@palal608]

That video had a boat load of "Tiny Tips" that make the change over so much easier. Great tutorial video Paul and Tina. It's always nice to see it done before doing it. Merry Christmas to you and your families

[@ModelA]

Glad it was helpful! Merry Christmas!

[@vayabroder729]

Great to see you back in the garage! Merry Christmas guys!

[@ModelA]

Merry CHRISTmas to you!

[@rayk9315]

Hi Paul: I bought a 31 Roadster about four years ago. It was overheating so I pulled the radiator and discovered it was filled with rust and other matter.No one boiles them out anymore so I ordered a new one from Brass Works in California. I got the three core which is their best model. While I was at it I replaced the timing gear and a new water pump. The car runs 160 f all day long.

[@ModelA]

Nice work!

[@williammiller2750]

Another great video. Thanks.

[@ModelA]

Glad you enjoyed it William!

[@thomassabeldindahouse6753]

Paul, you are so amazing! I LOVE the Model A's.

[@ModelA]

Thanks so much!

[@johncharlton2602]

First of all a very Merry Xmas and Happy Hew Year to Model "T" and your good self . Just the way I do it except I take off the block inlet and only loosen the very front clamp . You can then wiggle off the pipe as an assembly . I have done this many times and never ever had to change the gasket . Also only loosen the top rad end clip I guess I am just plain lazy but only have two hose clips to check for leaks . Excellent video as usual ,

[@ModelA]

Great tip!

[@MrDaveBeatty]

Great informative video. Wish you were closer, I would like to help and learn…

[@daviddoe2440]

Sweet ride btw!

[@ModelA]

Thanks!

[@pipefitter1728]

Wow, not a single Derek-ism! Was it just a matter of time to slowly purge yourself of them? All kidding aside, excellent informative video! Can’t wait to see the next one!

[@federicomaisch6812]

Great video, thank you for sharing

[@eugenelevin8314]

Thanks for this great video Paul!

[@ModelA]

Thank YOU!

[@bubba6richards729]

Hey Paul. I finally got my 1931 model A deluxe town sedan home. Runs looks great but have a question about a leaking radiator. Should I buy a new aluminum one, or should I take the old one and have it repaired. Ty sir. You have given us a PLETHORA of knowledge on everything model A. 😎🇺🇸👍🏼

[@ModelA]

Repair the old one, hands down. Find a radiator shop ran by an old guy. Old guys rule.

[@bubba6richards729]

@@ModelA I have an old radiator repair shop 10 mins from me. Update: after watching your video on changing a radiator, I realized that the old owner had it filled to the top and I experienced the “boil over”. Radiator is still good. 😎. I told model T the car I just bought was featured in the 1998 snap on calendar in the month of December. 🇺🇸. Can’t wait to start my model A journey. Thanks for sharing your expertise with everyone. God bless 🙏🏻

[@mortenf.hansen6512]

Ohhh, you are lucky as me … a calm wife. 😂Most important tool in my toolbox

[@ModelA]

Indeed

[@Go4Corvette]

Nice team work. Am normally working alone so I would spot weld the old nuts and install new nuts spot welded to the new radiator spring now it's a one man job, 😆 🤣 take care, Mike

[@ModelA]

Cheater!! Hahaa!

[@Go4Corvette]

@@ModelA just a little bit. 😂

[@wesshofner9495]

Show one on how to rebuild a horn

[@AstraWerke]

7:05 - put the wrench on the castle nut and spin from below until it holds itself against the radiator ;P

[@ModelA]

Yep.

[@Wooley689]

Fantstic how-to video.

[@ModelA]

Thank you!

[@mattpowers3958]

Great to see Gandalf coming together. Reason #67 to buy a Model A: the radiators are easier to change than a John Deere two-cylinder’s! 🤣 How much coolant does a Model A require?

[@ModelA]

2.5 to 3 gallons.

[@michaeledwards8051]

What is the benefit of just why the steel radiator "hose"?

[@gregsimmons694]

Thanks for sharing. Love old cars! God bless you and savior JESUS keep you safe always!

[@ModelA]

Jesus is our Lord. He is risen!

[@scottmagyar]

Awesome Video. Was wondering are the aftermarket Radiators any good, thks

[@ModelA]

Yes they are, depending which one

[@scottmagyar]

Great, can you post or let me know what brand to stay away from , thks sir

[@ModelA]

I have had great luck with Brassworks radiators. Particularly the 10 fins per inch ones. Like this- www.mikes-afordable.com/product/A8005H1.html

[@elljon1]

When by myself I use a 3/8's breakover w/socket to hold the nut on top while I get underneath. Can you imagine what it was like trying to line up cotter pin holes all day on a moving assembly line like the ones you just did or the 4 with the rear motor mount ?

[@ModelA]

Oh, dang! Hadn't thought of that. Yikes!

[@Dabaspony]

My hood doesn’t line up correctly. Is that how you can adjust the alignment with the rods on the top ? Where the hood meets the Cowl

[@ModelA]

You can make a slight adjustment with the rods, but if the gap is wider at the bottom, it could be a bent frame.

[@mr_paw_t]

good video. informative too!

[@ModelA]

Thanks Paul

[@carlthomas428]

Thanks!

[@ModelA]

Thank YOU!!

[@denniscling5542]

You make great videos on the Model A's. My question is. How to get rid of rattling horn rod in steering column?

[@ModelA]

Common issue. Foam pads around the rod do the trick.

[@denniscling5542]

@@ModelA Thank you I'll try that.

[@jimmccormick663]

Not exactly about the video, but the radiator cap. My 29 radiator cap has the same screw threads as the gas cap and is in much better condition. Can I use it as a gas cap or is there a venting issue?

[@ModelA]

There is a venting issue. If you drill a small hole in the radiator cap, then it might make an OK gas cap.

[@robertsimpson7113]

Does a model A water pump have sufficient power to force water to an auxiliary cabin heater?

[@ModelA]

I would think so.

[@paulmahacek9105]

Why didn't you put a thermostat in the upper hose?

[@ModelA]

Because these cars don't need a thermostat. They make things worse

[@martymorris9017]

Do you ever use an after market radiator to replace an old one? Or do you get them repaired? I have a 1929 model and my radiator leaks in the top half of the core.

[@ModelA]

I get them repaired. Full video from my radiator shop coming soon!

[@douglaslambert579]

Simple

[@Sizzorfite]

I don't understand.. Model A with electrical quick connects and an alternator?

[@ModelA]

Yes

[@Jim_Stark]

my problem is being able to find an affordable, original radiator for my '29. went to swap meets all summer, i'm in some model a clubs. can't find anything.

[@ModelA]

The original round tube radiator in my 29 is a little inadequate on real hot days. Ir you plan to drive your Model A much, then avoid n original

[@Jim_Stark]

@@ModelA any recommendations for a good radiator that is stock in appearance?

[@DragonsailPuppets]

Loving that green coupe! What a gorgeous piece of machinery. Great instructional video too, just in case I ever get one of these 🤠.Hello from the puppets! 😺🐶🐶🤡

[@ModelA]

I miss the puppets!! I wish we could do a collab. Puppets and Model A's would be awesome

[@DragonsailPuppets]

@@ModelA Yes! I could definitely see my puppets riding around in a model A... Once they get off their party boat ⛵

[@kristinamoncayo484]

hey hows it going where did you get the radiator from

[@ModelA]

Going well, thank you! Got it done at Modesto Radiator

[@butch2kow549]

Its a pain in the rear end to do it by yourself but it has to get done at times.

[@johnkiehl3520]

I didn't see a thermostat. Do you use them?

[@ModelA]

Nope. Didn't come with one, not needed

[@gembotsanjaya2276]

jooooz 👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍

[@Bbbuddy]

Speaking of cotter pins, do you think the modern soft ones (like Harbor Freight sells) are safe?

[@ModelA]

For most Model A applications, yes. Inside the engine, no way.

[@ericeriksen8684]

Isn't there a sets crew in the radiator bottom ring to keep the cap from unscrewing?

[@ModelA]

No

[@ethanweixel3336]

My companion is a vice grip and multiple tries.

[@peterrabone6084]

Hi I noticed that the water that came out was very rusty in colour does the antifreeze have any anti corrosion effects? Peter from Llandudno Wales UK

[@ModelA]

This car had just water. No antifreeze yet. Yes

[@peterrabone6084]

Thanks .

[@stevenbeall9637]

For all the Model A drivers out there who somehow know nothing about maintaining their cars (all 2 of you), this is good to know. This bit of useless knowledge is right up there with what to if you encounter a lion in the wild.

[@ModelA]

That was kindof rude.

[@jayoneill1533]

Gandalf looks very nice with his new tires. C’mon Paul, how did you wound the old radiator? 😊

[@ModelA]

Gandalf doesn't have new tires yet. I'll never tell!!

[@MrBrendog67rat]

i have done it a few times myself

[@ModelA]

You rock!

[@geyser3445]

Easy Peasy!

[@ModelA]

Piecy!

[@user-do8vu4wc9i]

What coolant type is used?

[@ModelA]

Whatever is on sale at O'Reilly's

[@mattomon1045]

My brother has a Honday and so far it has taken him 4 days to change the rariator in it. I keep telling him that he has the rong car! Is there a water heator for a model A ?

[@ModelA]

You're right! Model A radiator swap takes about 30 minutes. It takes 12 hours if you make a video of it. No heater

[@davidkanipe1812]

Hey Paul, we’re you a radio man in service or just a ham radio operator? Why I ask is that I see so many radios in your garage! Regards, Dave

[@ModelA]

Radioman. Have the brass sparks and the hat. 73!

[@mariobmf2381]

Hello Paul! I am from Brazil. I am Mario, 67. Is possible to have a Ford model A 1932 hard top, good to ride, to bring to Brazil? How much money i will spend to have this car in USA? IT'S MY DREAM...!!! Thanks to help me.

[@ModelA]

There is a 1932 for sale on Hemmings right now! hemmings.com

[@mariobmf2381]

@@ModelA thanks you Very much!

[@harveyhaase2030]

I wish I had a Model T to help me 🙁

[@ModelA]

They are very expensive

[@martinsimon2170]

The second person is called a ViceGrip

[@ModelA]

Hahahhaaaa!!

[@kennymartin379]

What type of oil goes in the motor

[@ModelA]

I did a video on that

[@kennymartin379]

@@ModelA just want to know what type of oil and weight

[@ModelA]

@@kennymartin379 Well covered in the video

[@benhancock1408]

I can't believe you actually dribbled all that goober onto the fender.

[@ModelA]

Believe it. I am able to goober up almost anything.

[@MrBrendog67rat]

How come you dont take the hood off first?

[@ModelA]

I'm a goober

[@craigweis6576]

By yourself? Use a vicegrip.

[@brendamcdaniel1958]

Thanks for the entertainment. I’m not sure how I did it but I know I didn’t lay down to do it 😂and of course I didn’t film it 🎥. Thanks for the video friends.

[@funeralhall2573]

Model T🤪🤪🤪🤪🤪!

[@user-yg6ss6by8d]

No thermost

[@dowen1511]

Just saying you should Alway put distilled water in a cooling system Paul city water causes corrosion over time. 👍

[@ModelA]

That wasn't city water. We live in the country and have our own water and amazing RO filters.

[@dowen1511]

Its the minerals in regular water that are of the issue . distilled water is void of minerals that can cause corrosion over time.

[@ModelA]

Correct. Our water is void of a lot of minerals.

[@dowen1511]

Well that's good for cars , but bad humans that can cause a lot of verious health issues Paul.

[@dowen1511]

Your water might be striping your body of the minerals it needs .

[@stevepeuster2857]

Looks like you really need to boil out that engine block! Rusty& Crusty!!!

[@matthewb8229]

You pulled the fuse before taking anything apart? Where's your sense of adventure?

[@ModelA]

Hahaa! I'm going soft

[@johnds6621]

so do you know a guy to rebuild the old radiator? Rebuilding them is a dying art.

[@ModelA]

Yes! Upcoming video, gonna show how Michael recores a radiator.

[@johnds6621]

@@ModelA great can't wait. Keep up the good work. Stay healthy.

[@robj2704]

The closest thing to a Model A rad change is a Jeep CJ.

[@ModelA]

Same deal?

[@russpeck1320]

Thanks for the "cool" video, kids!

[@ModelA]

Our pleasure!

[@mongo64071]

Hi Paul. I was waiting for a full craigslist rebuild of the radiator support. Krylon. Psssss….Pssss….Pss.

[@ModelA]

Next time!

[@Witherjai]

It’s definitely a 2 person job

[@kb1kos]

6:40 French kissing an old car???" It's one thing to love Model As, but really!

[@ModelA]

Hahaa! I'm blood brothers with the car too.

[@wurly164]

How are your kidneys .?

[@ModelA]

So so

[@wurly164]

@@ModelA I was there last year before Thanksgiving giving. For 2 weeks it didn't pass then had surgery to remove it. Now I drink a lot more water. Be well my friend

[@garyr7027]

I see Ford started their goofy engineering way back then. I've seen modern cars easier to do than this.