Hey everyone. I have been searching the past few days for the answer to my question but I haven't been able to find one I am comfortable with. I recently rear-ended a Z71 and the hitch went through the hood and bent the radiator core support back. Car still runs fine (parked though) because it didnt go far enought to disturb the serp belt. No leaks. Is this frame damage that will require professional attention or can I just shape it back with a mallet? Keep in mind it was about a 10-15 mph accident so the damage isn't too bad. Thanks

 

You might be able to bend it back yourself. You would need to remove all outer shell parts like bumper, fenders, braces, etc. If you cannot shape it back yourself then have a shop look at it. Might be a good idea to get an alignment afterwards too.

 

The top rad support is a box (closed) sheet metal section of the motor compartment. The hood latch is supported by this sturcture. It is a spot welded assembly. The front motor compartment rails are also held by the bumper bar support and lower rad support, so, cutting the top support out would not change the geometry. The rad support could be salvaged (probably) by cutting and rewelding and fill piece. I moved my rad forward. Top and bottom stock rad supports are gone. Glad I did it. I needed the space. (97ss 383 - D1) B.