DeWitts "Direct Fit" seems too thick to fit- what am I missing?

[billschroeder5842]

Thanks Guys for the responses and ideas.

I've done a radiator swap before on my ZR1, so I had a good idea of what to expect and this radiator is not was was expected. I ordered a OEM "direct fit" meaning DIRECT OEM fit with zero alternations as I'm kind of a OE guy and don't race.
The radiator core (Dewitts knows this as they included shims) is too wide, the upper filler neck is too big for the hose, the lower petcock drain protrudes 1 1/2 inch and the reservoir inlet protrudes 3/4 more than stock all causing "snags" when installation--- I broke my shroud trying to make this work.

I'll call DeWitts on Monday and work a trade in for a correct one. If they don't have one, I''ll get my money back and order a Delco OEM.

[Mikey]

I'm pretty sure they'll make it right for you. Might have sent you the wrong part.
I got the wrong radiator a few months ago for my '64 and although it was technically my fault because they sent what I ordered, Dewitts listened to my explanation how it happened (their website can be confusing) and they happily exchanged for the one I needed. They even picked up the shipping for the exchange.

[HAWAIIZR-1]

Sorry to hear and see this. They must have sent you the wrong radiator. Here are some photos when I installed mine. No issues and very easy. I still need to paint that white spacer and should have done that back then. It is a very good system and seals and fits very well. The instruction shows the only mod to trim the rubber a little. Best wishes to resolve it.