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The Cars => 1968 Shelby GT350/500/500KR => Topic started by: 6s1640 on November 03, 2025, 10:18:13 PM

Title: Radiator tie rod to side straps
Post by: 6s1640 on November 03, 2025, 10:18:13 PM
Hi all, does anyone know if there is a source for either 20 or 24 inch radiators side strap tie rod?  This is the small diameter rod that runs mid high on radiator that hold side straps from flexing out.  The attached image are a loose rod from a 68 small block radiator and on the radiator.
Thanks
Cory
Title: Re: Radiator tie rod to side straps
Post by: Bob Gaines on November 04, 2025, 12:47:37 PM
Quote from: 6s1640 on November 03, 2025, 10:18:13 PMHi all, does anyone know if there is a source for either 20 or 24 inch radiators side strap tie rod?  This is the small diameter rod that runs mid high on radiator that hold side straps from flexing out.  The attached image are a loose rod from a 68 small block radiator and on the radiator.
Thanks
Cory
They are relatively easy to make . I would concentrate on that angle to obtain one.
Title: Re: Radiator tie rod to side straps
Post by: 6s1640 on November 04, 2025, 01:48:48 PM
Hi Bob,

Thanks for replying. I was thinking that was probably going to be the case. Catch you later.
Cory
Title: Re: Radiator tie rod to side straps
Post by: 6s1640 on November 05, 2025, 04:18:37 PM
Hi Bob,

I did it. It took a little developmental work and a hint from my neighbor who was in the fabrication business, but I think I'm pretty close to replicating an original tie rod. See attached image.  Mine is on the left and the original is on the right in both images.
Thanks
Cory
Title: Re: Radiator tie rod to side straps
Post by: Coralsnake on November 05, 2025, 04:50:40 PM
Well done. Thats how the vendors start!
Title: Re: Radiator tie rod to side straps
Post by: Bob Gaines on November 05, 2025, 05:34:45 PM
Quote from: 6s1640 on November 05, 2025, 04:18:37 PMHi Bob,

I did it. It took a little developmental work and a hint from my neighbor who was in the fabrication business, but I think I'm pretty close to replicating an original tie rod. See attached image.  Mine is on the left and the original is on the right in both images.
Thanks
Cory
Excellent job. I well take 2. ;D  ;D
Title: Re: Radiator tie rod to side straps
Post by: Special Ed on November 05, 2025, 06:40:24 PM
now find the thin cutter nuts anybody find a source for them?
Title: Re: Radiator tie rod to side straps
Post by: FL SAAC on November 06, 2025, 06:51:04 AM
Quote from: 6s1640 on November 05, 2025, 04:18:37 PMHi Bob,

I did it. It took a little developmental work and a hint from my neighbor who was in the fabrication business, but I think I'm pretty close to replicating an original tie rod. See attached image.  Mine is on the left and the original is on the right in both images.
Thanks
Cory


just viewed your results, great research and development on your part !
Title: Re: Radiator tie rod to side straps
Post by: 6s1640 on November 06, 2025, 02:41:27 PM
Hi Special Ed,

I already did find the cutter nuts, from a company called Skycraft Parts and Surplus out of Orlando Florida.The nut has also been referred to as pal nut, speed nut or stamp steel lock nut. I had to buy 100 of them., So I will have extras.
Cory
Title: Re: Radiator tie rod to side straps
Post by: Special Ed on November 06, 2025, 07:15:10 PM
I will buy someof your  extras hope they are the correct size.
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