New Rad and Shell
 

Hey Barners I'm restoring a '29 Leatherback and looking for complete replacements for both the radiator and shell. Lots of choices for radiators but have not seen any positive feedback on repro shells, regardless of finish.
Anyone have a positive experience with a repro shell for a '29?
Thank, CT

Re: New Rad and Shell
 

Don't think you will find any positive feedback on the shell. Call Bert's in Co. to get a good restoreable one.

Re: New Rad and Shell
 

CT, we put an after market shell on my father in laws car. No problems with fit. There is a flea market in Ancaster this morning where a very good A and T parts supplier will be attending (Twiss Auto Parts). If you need his info, just pm me. I live 20 minutes from Cambridge. Good Luck. Jeff

Re: New Rad and Shell
 

Assuming you find a good one, how many hours of panel beating do you put in to get a perfect reflection when the plating goes on? How do you get rid of the rust pits? How much does it cost to plate?

Re: New Rad and Shell
 

Re: New Rad and Shell
 

My 29 Tudor has a repro shell from the early 90's, and it fits fine, and most people probably wouldn't know it's a repro. I bought a nickel repro shell in the mid 90's and it also isn't too bad, but it isn't as nice as an original. I'll try to find the comparison pictures of the two.

Re: New Rad and Shell
 

The repro shell on my '29 is about 5 years old and it's a constant battle to keep the rust coming through the plating under control. They are not very good quality.
Vendors, Please note!

Re: New Rad and Shell
 

My car was stored near Melbourne and everything has gone rusty!

Re: New Rad and Shell
 

Here's a link to a thread I started comparing original to repro shells.

http://www.fordbarn.com/forum/showth...or+shell+repro

Re: New Rad and Shell
 

Thanks all, sorry I've been away and just caught up on replies...I hadn't really considered repairing and then replating the old shell. Haven't heard too many positives on replating quality either. I imagine I'll get my rad then see how the old one is for fit and shape first...maybe replating could be an option...I don't plan on getting the car judged, just trying to keep close to original where practical.