Ok, so mild update:
I found a local shop that can/will fix the ding in the radiator at a minimal cost (yay!)
I also decided to go ahead with ANing my radiator setup
I pulled the WP and T-Stat housing off last night then measured out how much -16 line I'd need.
Summit sells Aeroquip "Starlight" hose in increments of 3', 6', 10', etc., etc. I measured out the amount of line I'd need and came up with 3'4"... Paying an extra $40 for 4" of line SUCKS!! Luckily it looks like Mike will be going a similar route with his radiator, so he's gunna help out with the cost for the extra 3'.
But yeah, parts list for converting your radiator from normal (with standard lines and clamps) to baller (nylon/nomex braided lines with AN fittings) is as follows:
3' of
Aeroquip Startlite Racing Hose FCU1603 (you may need more depending on radiator setup) at $40.95
4x
Summit Racing® Weld-In Bungs SUM-220064 at $8.95 per.
4x
Aeroquip Reusable Hose Ends FBM4436 (I went with all 90 deg fittings for my setup) at $41.95 per.
So yeah, you're looking at right
about $245 (plus shipping)
in parts (individual costs may vary depending on fittings used and hose length)
to convert over to AN radiator lines.
Once all the goodies arrive you will still need to find a welder to attach the weld-on -16 bungs to your radiator and WP/T-stat housings.
I'll be making the drive up to Brian this coming Friday with my radiator and WP housing. Ideally he'll have received a big box of goodies from Summit and will have been able to make my replacement T-Stat cover/filler neck (attaching my AST directly to the WP Housing). That way when I arrive it will be a quick handy, some cutting/welding, then surprise buttsecks before I drive the 200 miles back home.