M38 Radiator Support Rods

Jeff_Lee · Post by **Jeff_Lee** » Mon May 07, 2018 9:16 pm

I am speaking of the 2 rods that ride in the motor mounts slots, and then hook up to the slots on the side of the radiator for complete power plant removal (with radiator).

Are these rods meant to be installed "full time" in the radiator slots, or are they normally meant to be resting along the frame rails during day-to-day use? In other words, inserted only when necessary for full power plant and radiator removal??

Thanks, Jeff

Post by **wesk** » Mon May 07, 2018 10:25 pm

All the time inserted properly.

skyjeep50 · Post by **skyjeep50** » Tue May 08, 2018 7:28 am

Once they are in place and the engine is installed - they can't be removed, or inserted. Unless, I suppose, they were cut in two.

Jeff_Lee · Post by **Jeff_Lee** » Tue May 08, 2018 7:50 am

Great Gentlemen, thanks for the input.
A related installation question:
It's tough to maneuver the radiator in around the mounted fan blade. Is it best to bolt the fan on the water pump pulley after the radiator is installed?
Best, Jeff

skyjeep50 · Post by **skyjeep50** » Tue May 08, 2018 8:11 am

The front grill is removable - taking that off will give you room to maneuver the radiator in place after the fan is on. You can take the fan off and on with the radiator in place but that is difficult and you risk damaging the radiator if something slips.

4x4M38 · Post by **4x4M38** » Tue May 08, 2018 10:50 am

And speaking of rods and radiators make sure you
have that top rod installed from the radiator to the
cowl when all is done.

mdainsd · Post by **mdainsd** » Tue May 08, 2018 12:08 pm

Dang, that reminds me, I need one of those. Guess I could make one up.

4x4M38 · Post by **4x4M38** » Tue May 08, 2018 4:58 pm

Yes,
Easily made from 5/16” rod threaded both
ends, with a little bend to go over the crossover
pipe.

Keeps the fan from trashing the radiator if the
motor mounts go, especially going downhill.