The Viking Rad ornament was used from '29 to '31, but 2 dfferent constructions were used. In '31, Chevrolet went to a modern twist on type rad cap instead of the threaded type used in '29/30.
As for the 2 different Viking Ornaments, the '29/'30 unit has a white metal base which screws on to the rad neck much like the original rad cap. It has a "Viking" top which is hinged to the base and has 3 prongs on the underside which twist into place in 3 corresponding openings on the base to seal the rad.
For '31, the base is slightly different, and has 2 prongs which twist into place on the rad neck and is able to be "pinned" in place to prevent it from being stolen. The '31 Viking Top looks much the same as the earlier one, and is hinged except it only has 2 prongs which align with the corresponding 2 notches in the decorative base and it twists on to seal the rad
Bill Barker's '31 Site shows good photos of the '31 Ornament, not sure where you may find photos of the '29/30 unit. I have a complete original '31 unit for my car.
I think both types are available in Stainless Steel through the Filling Station if you have the dough ($700).
Finally, I understand the '31 Viking ornament came out about Feb of '31, and shortly thereafter (mid-late summer of '31)the Eagle Ornament was introduced which would become the standard ornament for '32 cars. It was also suitable for '31's (but not for 29/30) and many '31's I see use the Eagle Ornament. It is as you may know much simpler in construction and does not have the complications of a hinged seperate base.
Last edited by Gunsmoke; 03/29/14 10:57 PM.
