88 GT Lower Core Support Repair Options

dmarc · Aug 14, 2021

Hi all,

I purchased a new aluminum radiator and Mark VIII fan to install in my 88 GT. However, before I install these parts I want to address my lower radiator core support. The lower support is clearly damaged and I imagine the only option would be to remove and replace it with an aftermarket piece. Unfortunately, I do not have a welder so I couldn't install a new support myself. What should I expect a reputable shop to charge me for install? Also, would you suggest a direct replacement piece offered by someone like LMR and AmericanMuscle or a team z tubular? It is an AC car and I know the team z support does not have condenser mounts. Open to any and all suggestions. Thanks!

Mstng93SSP · Aug 14, 2021

For me personally, if this is not a "show" car I would just clean that one up, get all the surface rust off, paint or undercoat it and leave it as is. You are looking at a lot of work/money to replace that especially if you would be paying someone else to do the work.

HemiRick · Aug 14, 2021

You own a come along? chain the rearend to a tree, attach come along to another tree in front, remove stuff so you attach come along around bent center....Pull on it !

mikestang63 · Aug 14, 2021

get a cheap ratchet puller and a BFH....i agree on addressing the rust and POR 15

dmarc · Aug 14, 2021

Thanks everyone. I appreciate the feedback. I guess it won't hurt to try and straighten it out myself. I don't think I can make it any worse. It is definitely no show car, but I want to make it as nice as I can given what I have to work with. I will for sure invest in some POR 15 while I'm at it.

7991LXnSHO · Aug 14, 2021

A big hammer after you pull things into place, then some more regular hammer and dolly work is what I’d do if welding was not an option.
Rustoleum Rusty Metal Primer is still a good option if you do not want to wait for the POR-15 to eventually wear off.

Wayne Waldrep · Aug 14, 2021

dmarc said:
I don't think I can make it any worse.

I'm just going to leave this here for future reference...

If you try to straighten it, do very small steps. There's a fine line between straightening and folding. You can do it though! It's just metal.

Redfire Fox · Aug 15, 2021

I had my lower cut out and got a tubular lower support welded in from Team Z. My car doesn't have a/c and condenser but I couldn't be happier. My was in worse shape than yours. I would clean it up and bend it back to shape if I was you.

88 GT Lower Core Support Repair Options

dmarc

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Mstng93SSP

You have a nice rear end there Dave.

HemiRick

I'd be looking at jacking under the house

mikestang63

dmarc

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7991LXnSHO

wanna catch the space herp

Wayne Waldrep

Before I post a pic, do you have one of yours?

Redfire Fox

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88 GT Lower Core Support Repair Options

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You have a nice rear end there Dave.

I'd be looking at jacking under the house

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wanna catch the space herp

Before I post a pic, do you have one of yours?

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