What a PITA!
I saw your reply in my build thread, and I'm about to try swapping the nipple out. Really pi$$es me off that I paid extra for this "Gbody Direct Bolt in" for extra money over a Northern or Summit 2 row and had to deal with the same headaches but would have at least saved myself some money.
After awhile I was wishing I spent the money on a Summit copper/brass radiator. But atleast it looks purdy as the finish product.
For what it's worth, just gong to throw in 2 cents in case future readers "search" this thread...
I spent a lot, and I mean LOT of time reading about all the radiator companies I could find a before buying one.
You'd be surprised how many companies used the same part number for a number of different cars, but, expect you to "slightly modify" for the differences.
FWIW, I went with a summit branded aluminum after looking at lots of measurements and comparing pics of where their tank flanges were compared to my car, etc.
Inspected in person, dropped it right in, a direct fit, no trimming or mods required.
Maybe I got lucky. Maybe it depends on the day of the week yours gets made. I DO know my unit had been opened/returned before I got it, but, plastic bag was factory sealed. Someone maybe didn't like the fit in their application?