I have a 355 in my car right now but it will be a 396 in a year or so. I'm currently converting my car from auto to four speed like it was originally.

Now, since I'm buying a manual radiator can I use a BBC radiator with a SBC motor right now? Will there be issues?

Yes, use a BBC radiator w/SBC. The only issue will be no auto trans oil cooler for the moment.

You can get a BBC rad w/trans cooler and not use it, keep the plugs in the tank.

It will be a four speed trans. I was told this morning that the BBC radiator won't line up with SBC fan since the motor is offset to the passenger side on BBC mounts. So I am eating the cost of a SBC radiator until the BBC motor is ready.

The BBC radiator is larger, the portion covered by your current fan and shroud, though it wont get it all, will cover enough to keep your car cool. If you want to upgrade to a BBC shroud and thermostatic controlled seven blade fan your SBC won't complain about the extra capacity.


Larger Dave