Question on my PRC radiator for LT1 in my 55

[yomamma]

Finally got my new cross flow rad for the LT1 in my 55 but have a mounting question. The rad spans about 4 or 5 inches over each support panel. I have the outlet bib, both tranny cooler holes(1/4 NPT), and the LT1 steam hole(1/4 NPT) on the passenger side The driver's side has the drain plug at the bottom and the inlet bib at the top. All of these access points will need to go thru the panels and I was wondering if I can just vertically cut off the inside 4 or 5 inches of the panels to allow for access. I don't know how much support these side panels provide to the front end, so I'm not sure if it is a smart thing to do. The other option is to cut individual holes for each access point, but that will be a lot more work. How much stability do the panels provide to the front end, and would cutting off that much cause me a problem?

I have seen pictures of these mounted and most show individual holes.

Thanks for your help

[Rick_L]

The panels are primarily there to make the air go through the radiator in the original installation.

I'm sure they do supply some torsional rigidity to the front sheetmetal, but not a lot.

So I'm sure you could cut big holes for the access you need.

It would look better and more professional to make the holes match what goes through them IMO.

Just like anything else you modify or build for your car, it's all in the details.