What Radiator Size Fits Top Mount Case? Size Guide With Measurements

Top 3 picks at a glance

Best overallRadiator Mount Bracket Fits Case/IH, International 544 686 706 806Check price

Runner-up378710R91 Radiator Mount Bracket Fits Case/International Harvester 706Check price

Also great378710R91 Radiator Mount Bracket Fits Case/International Harvester 2756Check price

The Short Answer

For most Case and International Harvester tractors that use a top-mount radiator, the core radiator measures between 17 and 27 inches wide (43–69 cm) and 17 to 22 inches tall (43–56 cm), with a core thickness of 2 to 3 inches (5–8 cm). The most common fitments are the 19 x 17.5 inch (48 x 44.5 cm) core used on the 544 and 686, and the 24 x 19 inch (61 x 48 cm) core found on the 706 and 806 series. Larger models like the 2756 run wider still, typically in the 26–27 inch (66–69 cm) range. Before ordering, confirm three numbers: core width, core height (including the tank or header where applicable), and the mounting hole spacing, which on these tractors is usually set by the bracket pattern rather than the core itself. Mounting brackets such as the 378710R91 pattern are model-specific, so the bracket and the radiator must match the same tractor series.

Standard Sizes

The table below lists typical top-mount radiator core dimensions for popular Case/IH models. Always verify against your old radiator or your parts manual, since replacement cores and aftermarket radiators can vary by up to half an inch.

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#1 Pick

Radiator Mount Bracket Fits Case/IH, International 544 686 706 806

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#2 Pick

378710R91 Radiator Mount Bracket Fits Case/International Harvester 706

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#3 Pick

378710R91 Radiator Mount Bracket Fits Case/International Harvester 2756

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#4 Pick

Radiator Mounting Kit, Universal Fit, Steel Brackets with Rubber Pads

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Inlet and outlet necks on these radiators are typically 1.5 to 2 inches (3.8–5 cm) in diameter, with the filler neck extending 2 to 3 inches above the top tank. Add roughly 3 to 5 inches (8–13 cm) to overall width and height beyond core dimensions to account for tanks and necks when checking clearance in the nose cone.

How to Measure Your Space

Take these measurements with the old radiator still in the tractor whenever possible, and write everything down before shopping:

1. Measure core width. Measure straight across the finned core only, not including the side tanks or frames. Record in both inches and millimeters.
2. Measure core height. Measure from the bottom of the fins to the bottom of the top tank. If your radiator has no separate top tank, measure the full finned height.
3. Measure overall dimensions. Include tanks, brackets, and the filler neck. This is the number that matters for hood and nose cone clearance.
4. Measure core thickness. Measure the depth of the finned pack at the edge, not across a tube header. Common values are 2 and 3 inches.
5. Check mounting hole spacing. Measure center-to-center between the top mounting holes. On 706-series tractors this typically aligns with the 378710R91 bracket pattern. Hole spacing is the single most common reason a nominally correct radiator will not bolt in.
6. Measure inlet and outlet necks. Note outer diameter and vertical position (left or right side, distance from the tank edge).
7. Verify bracket condition. Inspect the upper mounting brackets for cracks or worn rubber isolators. A new bracket set runs roughly $19 to $45 depending on the model and whether rubber pads are included.

By Room or Use Case

Restoring a small utility tractor (544, 686)

These models share the compact 19 x 17.5 inch core, so replacements are widely available and interchangeability between the two models is common. Budget $150–$350 for a quality replacement radiator plus around $19 for a fresh bracket set. Because these tractors are light duty, a 2-inch copper/brass core with standard 4-row construction is usually sufficient for plowing, mowing, and loader work.

Row-crop work (706, 756, 856)

The 706-series 24 x 19 inch core is the workhorse size in this family. Diesel variants run hotter than gas versions, so if you pull heavy implements or operate in hot climates, spec a 3-inch core or a 6-row fin design rather than the thinner original. Match the radiator to a sound 378710R91-pattern top bracket (about $22 for the 706); a cracked bracket lets the radiator flex, which cracks solder joints over time.

Heavy tillage (806, 1206, 1456)

These higher-horsepower models benefit from the thicker 3-inch cores listed above. Expect to pay more, typically $350–$700 for a new radiator in this size class. Check that the top bracket on the 806 is the heavy-gauge version; thinner aftermarket brackets have been known to crack under vibration from sustained tillage work.

Large frame and specialty (2756 and similar)

The 2756 uses the widest core in this guide at roughly 26.5 inches, and its dedicated bracket version sells around $39. Because stock is thinner for these larger models, lead times can stretch to several weeks. If your radiator is beyond repair but the bracket is sound, some owners have a local shop re-core the original tank set, which preserves the exact mounting pattern.

Universal and custom applications

For salvage-yard builds, hot-rod tractor conversions, or machines with modified front ends, a universal steel mounting kit with rubber pads (typically $40–$50) lets you adapt a radiator of nearly any size. Rubber isolators matter here: they absorb frame flex and prevent the vibration cracking that hard-mounted radiators suffer. Choose a kit rated for at least the radiator’s weight; a 3-inch copper/brass core in the 24 x 19 size can weigh 25–35 pounds when full.

Common Sizing Mistakes

• Measuring the old radiator instead of the core. Overall dimensions include tanks; if you order by overall width, you may receive a core too small for your shroud and side frames.
• Ignoring mounting hole spacing. A radiator half an inch off on hole centers will not bolt to a model-specific bracket like the 378710R91. Drill only as a last resort — it weakens the tank flange.
• Skipping the thickness check. A 2-inch core in a bay sized for 3 inches leaves a gap that reduces airflow through the grille; the engine will run hot under load even though the radiator “fits.”
• Reusing cracked or stretched brackets. Upper brackets cost $19–$45. Reusing a fatigued bracket to save that money risks a dropped radiator, which typically destroys the core entirely.
• Forgetting filler neck height. Some replacement radiators have taller necks that contact the hood. Measure hood clearance above the top tank before ordering.
• Overlooking hose neck positions. A neck on the wrong side, or offset by more than an inch or two, can force tight hose bends that restrict coolant flow.
• Assuming series interchangeability. The 686 and 706 look similar, but their cores differ by 5 inches in width. Cross-reference part numbers rather than eyeballing photos.

FAQ

Are 544 and 686 radiators interchangeable?

In most cases, yes — both use a core measuring about 19 x 17.5 inches with the same 4-bolt top-mount pattern. Verify mounting hole centers and neck positions against your original before ordering, since some replacement cores vary slightly by manufacturer.

How much does a replacement radiator and bracket set cost?

Bracket sets run from about $19 for small utility models to $40–$45 for large-frame versions or universal kits. Complete radiators range from roughly $150–$350 for 19-inch cores to $350–$700 for 24–27 inch 3-inch-thick cores, as of 2026 market pricing.

Can I use a universal mounting kit on a stock tractor?

You can, but it is rarely the best choice. Model-specific brackets align the radiator with the factory shroud and lower mounts. Universal steel brackets with rubber pads ($40–$50) are better reserved for custom builds or when the original bracket mounting points are damaged.

What size core do I need if I’ve upgraded engine power?

As a rule of thumb, move up one thickness grade — from 2 inches to 3 inches — or add two rows of tubes if you have increased horsepower or added a front-end loader. Never reduce core face area; a smaller but thicker core moves less air than the original footprint.