How to repair a Ford Model A radiator- Plus 2024 MAFCA convention update!

So, how do you keep your Ford Model A from overheating due to a bad or plugged radiator? Re-core your radiator! No need to buy a new one for crazy $$$ when you can have your radiator repaired for far less money.
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#paulshinn

[@elijahperez159]

I've had the pleasure of knowing Mike for over 25 years now. One thing you'll know before leaving his shop is he takes his work and family very serious. He takes pride in doing things right the first time. I actually lived in the house behind Modesto radiator, where the alley access garage was the original shop back in 1914. Mike learned and mastered the craft from the original owner that he bought the business from . Mike may be a man of few words, cause he lets his hands do all the talking for him. He does a lot of repairs most shops wouldn't even consider. He has made sure he keeps up with the times, but he has always had a spot in his heart to keep our vintage metal on the road. If he can't find a part available he has many times fabricated one himself that resembles the original. If you want done right, you can rest assured that Mike has the ability to do it.

[@quailstudios]

Congratulations on being voted onto the MAFCA board Paul. I know you will do the best job you know how. What a blessing for the Model A community! ❤

[@ModelA]

Thank you Hal! I need to take my commitment to people to the next level. God bless

[@dickdaley9059]

Knowing there was a radiator repair shop in our town was a blessing when Dad and I pulled out a leaker. It was just amazing to me as a kid to drop off the leakers and retrieve a beautiful black, shiny radiator ready for reinstalling. I remember words like “boiling” and “soldering” at the shop before I had a clue how radiators were rebuilt. For you guys that still do this work please accept my gratitude and appreciation! 🇺🇸⚓️

[@ModelA]

You were blessed, indeed! Mike's shop is a bit over an hour away from me, and totally worth it.

[@albertolugo1477]

First congratulations on getting elected to the Board of Directors. The National Club is in great hands with you in it. You have earned that position and all of us are in your debt for what you and Tina have done for the hobby. Another great video that continues to shed light on how to keep our beloved Model A on the Road. Got bless you and family. With great admiration, Al Lugo.

[@ModelA]

Thank you Al. God bless

[@miltcarlton2593]

In 1973, I bought a 1950 Chevrolet three-quarter ton pick up. It was my daily driver until my heater core began leaking. Less than 1/2 mile from my home was a heater repair shop run by a lady whose name was Fran. She pulled my heater core and my radiator and repaired them perfectly. Never had a heating problem at all until I finally sold the truck when I was 38 years old. Love your model ass and wish I had one.

[@ModelA]

Never had another man tell me that before. Hahahaaa!! That typo made me LOL!! Thanks man.

[@dinofalabrino8522]

Paul-This is possibly the best video you have done. Many, many radiator shops that do brass radiators are gone! This guy knows his stuff. He also repairs gas tanks. Many shops will not touch them. Question.....Can I send him a radiator or do we have to do walk in only? And congratulations on your nomination to the board .

[@ModelA]

Thank you! Yes, you can ship him a radiator. Call him up first so he can expect it.

[@patmccarthy5069]

It is so great to have people, such as Miguel who take pride in their work and do a fantastic job, which seems harder to find honest service folks these days. Congratulations Model A Guy to being elected to the MAFCA. You are a true testament for the Model A community and are going to do a great job for MAFCA, members and folks that love the Model A!

[@ModelA]

Thank you Pat! I will work my butt off for you.

[@williamforbes5826]

Congratulations on the BoD position and again on thirty two years of marital bliss! Model A's make people happy and you are helping people discover that! Thanks for the efforts.

[@ModelA]

Thank you William!

[@manuelstarr3602]

Congrats Paul. Ol' mate ain't no movie star but he knows his job. God Bless

[@ModelA]

He does! God bless

[@831BeachBum]

What a great resource to know that you'll end up with a product that'll resolve some issues A's have had in hotter climates or A's that do a lot of parade driving. The Modesto Radiator Shop website shows they do gas tank repairs. I wonder if they can clean out Model A fuel tanks, too?

[@ModelA]

Yep! He does them all the time. He built a special tumbler that locks the Model A gas tank in and turns it all over for media to clean them out without hving to cut them open every time.

[@Dan-qy1rg]

That's just what I did with my radiator on my 1963 Massey Ferguson 65, using a wire brush on the air intake platform and the scraper jumped out and hit it, darn independent wire brushes.🙃By the way many kudos on the MAFCA appointment, much deserved. Good to see Miguel out there doing these radiators. Thanks for sharing Paul, I hope your weekend goes great!

[@ModelA]

Thank you Dan!

[@wafive]

Just thought people might find this interesting. There is an Australian folk song called "Along the road to Gundagai". Over the years some of the verses have been changed, and added to. These are not original, but interesting none the less. "There's an old fashioned Ford Made of Rubber Tin and Board Along the Road to Gundagai" "Oh the radiator's hissing Half the motor's missing And the oil tank's running dry" "There's water in the Petrol And sand in all the gears And she hasn't seen a garage for more than forty years" "But Oh Gosh, what a raor (when I heard it as a kid, it was "Oh my Lord how she roared in that old fashioned Ford) When the pedal hits the floor Along the road to Gundagai" I always think of an A or a T when I hear this, so thought I would share it. This is the only version I can find on YT. If you start at 2.20 you will hear the verses. kzbin.info/www/bejne/nqm6nJd_eZxkj68

[@janetcrosby9274]

Congratulations Paul for getting the position in the Board of Directors!! I know we are in good hands now. And thank you for all your videos. They are the reason we now own a 1930 Pickup. Hope to meet you and Tina at the 2024 Convention in Ruidoso N.M. !! Only 200 miles from Corrales !

[@ModelA]

Nice! Thank you

[@alexkalish8288]

I've never seen that done before - fascinating. Buying a 29 4 door this year. I have m,any model T's and Packards. .

[@Kybossls]

Congratulations on your new position with MAFCA! Another good video of a needed item on my 400A.

[@ModelA]

Thank you! I will work my butt off for you.

[@richardbrobeck2384]

Congratulations Paul that is wonderful news !!

[@ModelA]

Thank you Richard. Now the hard work begins

[@ZacknDad]

Congrats my friend on making the Board. That is awesome. I know you really wanted to be on that as well. AMEN! I am sure you will enjoy every minute of it. Great video as always. That guy who worked on your radiator seemed like a really nice guy. Glad he is still in business. Not too many of those anymore. Hope you are having a great weekend. Zach is at a Youth Event for Church this weekend. Having a blast I am sure. Have a blessed Sunday and God bless!

[@ModelA]

Thank you, pastor Craig! The board seat isn't a line in the resume, it's the next step in my commitment to Model A people and a hobby many enjoy. The hard work begins now!! God made me different with this autism, so I have to find ways of serving others without all the touching and face to face stuff that I find very uneasy or sometimes impossible. Zack is at camp? Awesome! I hope Zack has fun and learns a lot. There's a huge world out there to discover, and going to camp is like a right of passage! God bless

[@mandolinman2006]

Congrats! You're one step closer to being the leader of the Model A world.

[@ModelA]

Hahahaa!! Hardly. I am just a humble servant to my fellow Model Aers and our Lord Jesus.

[@mandolinman2006]

@@ModelA yes, humility will help win over the loyal subjects. Lol. J/k. Congrats again!

[@vayabroder729]

Yes sir! So happy for you; can’t think of anyone more deserving of an official position with MAFCA. 100% with you on your thoughts about our throwaway society. A friend’s dad had a radiator repair shop a few years ago but those are rapidly disappearing just like radio and TV repair shops, shoe repair people, generator and alternator repair people, etc. The new thing is disposable and cheap everything which fills out waste sites and is ironic considering the supposed concern for the environment that is so fashionable these days from media and politicians.

[@ModelA]

Thanks man! I'm planning to work my butt off to ensure a future for this hobby and these cars. I agree about the disgust for throw away waste. I'm absolutely against the consumerism we see today.

[@charlesgall7829]

Congratulations!!! I know you are the best one for the job.

[@ModelA]

Thank you

[@JefferyHall-ct2tr]

GREAT Video Paul! Takes me back to my high school days. My first car decided to blow it's heater core on a cold night in the winter time! Removed the core the weekend after I got the car home from the basketball game. Took it over to a very similar shop out on Nebo Road in Muncie. The fellow hooked up the core to some air and plugged the other end. Stuck it in the test tank like your friend has in his shop and the thing bubbled up almost like a fountain!! The thing was REALLY shot! He recored it and a the next weekend I had it back in the old Torino! We did have a similar shop here in town, I HOPE it is still open! We had a radiator repair on my Mom's Mustang there, and they were GREAT!

[@ModelA]

Those kind of shops are awesome! I hope it's still there.

[@californigirl]

Not just a radiator shop, but you could find shop to rewind an alternator or rebuild a generator. We had Ace Auto Electric.

[@ModelA]

Yep. That's back when it was awesome.

[@charlesdalton985]

First and foremost - Congratulations again on your election to the MAFCA Board - well earned and deserved! And Happy Anniversary again as well - man what a big week you've had! And thank you, as always, for this video. I've never gotten to see a rad recored. ~ Chuck

[@ModelA]

Yes! Thank you! And to top it all off, I caught a cold day before yesterday, and my garage door failed last week so I can't open or close it now. 2 Door companies have been out to look at it and say it needs to be replaced, can't be fixed. ugh!!

[@charlesdalton985]

@@ModelA i’m sorry, my friend. If I may call you that. I hope you get to feeling better soon, and I hope something can be done about the door without having to replace it. ~ Chuck

[@ModelA]

Thanks, friend!

[@vernonforrester5735]

Congratulations on your position on the MAFCA Board of Directors. I thought I heard you mention Modesto Radiator in a previous video, but couldn't find it. I just spoke with Mike yesterday about doing my radiator and sent him pictures. Looking forward to hearing back from him. Thank you for all you do for this hobby.

[@ModelA]

Mike is a real craftsman. Thank you! I work my butt off for the future of this hobby.

[@AdamTillontheWeb]

Always appreciate seeing the details, even on jobs I’d never DIY. Now I know more of what to look for when getting my 28 rad rebuilt

[@ModelA]

Excellent!

[@davidgrisez]

This is the first time that I have heard about radiator repair shops. This is useful to know because all cars with an internal combustion engine have a radiator. It sure looks like very little has changed with car radiators. About the only differences is now electric radiator fans are used and there is shrouding around the radiator fans.

[@ModelA]

Yes! New radiators also seem to be made from aluminum.

[@fredA1234]

When I put it away the last time the clutch was fine. I looked underneath all the linkages are all hooked up, etc. and it did not seem to leak any excess oil. Thanks for your time in advance Fred

[@mattomon1045]

Congrats Paul !

[@ModelA]

Thank you!

[@fredA1234]

Call as usual you’re a genius. Worked like a charm. Thanks so much and congratulations again.

[@ModelA]

Great to hear!

[@paulmahacek9105]

The best video ever. Is it possible to make one that shows the attachment of the core to the tanks? Can't wait to see you in Ruidoso next summer

[@ModelA]

Mike wasn't too keen on showing that part in video. I respect his knowledge and his shop, so I don't show that part. I also don't ask why, that would be rude of me. Sorry, man.

[@charlesgall7829]

Great to see a craftsman at work. Becoming far and few I' m afraid though.

[@ModelA]

Unfortunately, true. When people like Mike are gone, they aren't being replaced.

[@steveshoemaker6347]

First a BIG CONGRATS ON GETTING THAT AMAZING POSITION Paul❣.....An thanks for show the Radiator repair shop 👍 Old F-4 Shoe🇺🇸

[@ModelA]

Thank you! Now, I have like 12,000 bosses (every MAFCA member)! Hahaa!

[@williammiller2750]

Another great video.

[@keviny4357]

Thanks Paul, that was interesting.

[@ModelA]

Glad you enjoyed it Kevin!

[@leahbarnacle6956]

Hey Paul, congratulations! I guess Leah and my vote counted. thanks for your enthusiasm and promoting the hobby of model As God bless you and Tina Steve

[@ModelA]

Yes it did!! Thank you for your vote and trust. I won't let you down. God bless

[@richardbrobeck2384]

What a great Shop !

[@ModelA]

Absolutely!

[@fredA1234]

Great, thanks so much

[@56Spookdog]

Congratulations! Cool video.

[@ModelA]

Thanks!

[@CAHelmer]

A true craftsman.

[@ModelA]

He is!

[@jamesonpace726]

The temp solder melts at is exactly the correct temp for it to melt....

[@ModelA]

I noticed that too

[@jesusgarciajr.182]

Hey Paul have a question, do you have to be a member of the MAFCA to go to the 2024 National Convention? Really been loving all of your videos. Been going down the “rabbit hole” on Model A’s. Hope to own a 30-31 Tudor sedan one day.

[@mr_paw_t]

haha ha.... Drive it like you know how to fix it! See ya next week!

[@greg96285]

Parabéns from Brasil.

[@ModelA]

¡Gracias, amigo mío! Amo mucho a Brasil. Me encantaron las playas y los desfiles.

[@jamesonpace726]

Olde world cool! Wonderful....

[@andyweixler662]

fantastic video

[@1979augistine]

I did this work for 20 years fixed thousands and also fixed fuel tanks , when you get good yiu can fix anything but you realize somethings are not worth fixing.

[@ModelA]

True

[@jameswagner9356]

I don't see where hotel information for the 2024 MAFCA Convention is available? Can you share links to hotels sites?

[@ModelA]

Sure! I put the link in the video, but here it is- www.southwestaventures.com See you there?

[@brianleduc2244]

Did i miss some here as the rad man said 4 tube and 11 fpi !!! after 50 years in the rad business i noticed that after tanks were off there a 3 row core and the now core out of the box was a 3 row aswell ,,,,, as for myself i never had nor seen a 4 row core for model A or T as over the years manufacturing cores as well or perhaps he got missed up and should of said 2 to a 3 tube core

[@ModelA]

He has done 4-core (row) radiators for me. This one is going to be 3-row. Cheaper!

[@fredA1234]

Other than driving it all the time. I live in New Hampshire. So I’m not gonna be driving it in the winter. Is there any way to prevent this without starting it and driving it?? Thanks again for your help.

[@ModelA]

Other than keeping it warm and dry in storage, I don't know. Perhaps someone here will chime in and offer some advice.

[@jamesonpace726]

When fire was the tool & knowledge was in yer head & phone ringers sounded like a phone ringing....

[@ModelA]

Absolutely!

[@festerhairball6588]

Curious..... are the tubes thinner on the new ones? If so, do you flush more often to prevent clogs? Thanks 👍

[@ModelA]

I don't know. Good question! Will ask Michael.

[@SelfMadeProject]

I know prices change with the times and videos are dated, but is there anybody that knows a ballpark price of what he charges for '29 radiator? Just looked at Brassworks prices, whew! Second question, can you ship him a radiator and have it shipped back?

[@ModelA]

Just give him a call. Phone number is in the video. Nice guy, would love to talk to you.

[@fredkaminski3668]

So all his A radiators are now 3 row, not 4?

[@ModelA]

Only if the bottom tank (like mine) is too narrow for 4. Either way, this will cool just fine.

[@fredA1234]

Hey Paul , congratulations. Quick question off-the-wall my Modle A has been sitting for about eight months or so. I know bad me. But I got it. It started right up but I have no clutch whatsoever. Any suggestions or thoughts?

[@ModelA]

Could be that the clutch has bonded itself to the flywheel. Is it humid where you live? A lot of times you can break the clutch free by being a little bit abusive to the drivetrain. Jack up the rear end and secure the car so it doesn't move. Start the motor and rev it a little with the clutch pedal pressed all the way to the floor. While keeping the clutch down, stomp on the brakes to lock up the rear wheels. You might have to restart the motor and do it a few times. If that doesn't break it loose, you may have to go in deeper.

[@fredA1234]

Great thanks so much I will give it a shot. Does it matter what gear I put it in?

[@ModelA]

3rd is best

[@snarfopotamus3627]

Mr. shinn what would be your recommendation on replacing old rotten wood in the model a that would be on the cheaper side my model A has just about every problem in the book but the wood and partially the goofy timings keeping me from driving her.

[@ModelA]

I'm not an expert on wood replacement, though I have done it on 3 fordors. If I had woodworking skills, I would have made my own parts. However, my woodworking skills suck so I bought the wood kits and installed them. I use www.fordwood.com

[@scottnielsen1553]

I bought a wooden rib/header that was over the wind shield from a place in Orange, CA called CW Moss. I was very happy with the quality/workmanship

[@ModelA]

@@scottnielsen1553 CW Moss is an EXCELLENT Model A parts source. I don't think they make the wood, just sell it. I could be wrong.

[@scottnielsen1553]

Paul you are right. I too think they just sell it. I was very happy with my purchase. @@ModelA

[@crf250lguy]

Is 850 too much I called and that what I was quoted

[@ModelA]

That's the going rate these days.

[@crf250lguy]

@@ModelA alrighty I'm going to drop mine off And do the 11 fin

[@benjaminnunez9568]

I have a1920model T truck that I want to sell don't know how much it's worth

[@ModelA]

Neither do I

[@jimanderson4981]

We once had many great radiator shops in our area years ago until the EPA made it too expensive for them to comply with regulations. And we aren’t California.

[@ModelA]

That is truly a shame. Where? Someplace worse that Commiefornia? Is that possible???

[@jimanderson4981]

@@ModelA CR Iowa

[@ModelA]

I wasn't expecting Iowa. Wow

[@michaelbenardo5695]

Is that why they all disappeared? That damn EPA?

[@jimanderson4981]

@@ModelA They were required to install elaborate and expensive air scrubbers and ventilation to eliminate the lead and acid fumes. I think OSHA had something to do with it also.

[@randylenart9674]

It's drive it like ya stole it lol, and ya know how to fix it

[@miltcarlton2593]

My last sentence should have read “model A”, not “model ass”.

[@ModelA]

I literally laughed out loud when I saw that!!

[@ScottRuggels]

COngratulations on the Election to the BOD. On a completely different subject, is thare a resource for the correct colors and interiors for Model As? I have a project involving them and want to get the cars Period Correct.

[@ModelA]

Thank you! Yes, the judging standards.

[@ScottRuggels]

ANd those are on the Web?@@ModelA

[@ModelA]

@@ScottRuggels www.mafca.com/cart/index.php?productID=115

[@jameswagner9356]

Congratulations on the election to the board!

[@ModelA]

Thank you! Now the hard work begins

[@jamesanillesjr8384]

Congrats Paul!

[@ModelA]

Thank you! Time to get to work.