Radiators

[T-Bucket Bob]

What is better to run in a t bucket aluminum or steel radiator? 2 or 3 row core
I would like to run fan with it. Are the radiators on e-bay worth looking into?

Thanks

 

[Spanky]

As with a lot of the things we use in our hot rods, radiators have gone high-tech over the last several years. It's not a simple choice between two or three rows. In fact, today's aluminum 2-row radiators probably cool better than yesterday's copper/brass 4-rows, because of the size & spacing of the cooling tubes, and the heat transfer points between the tubes and the fins. I personally have an old-style 3-row copper/brass radiator for my mildly hopped-up Chevy 350 (Vortec 64cc heads, mild cam, flat-top pistons) and it does the job.

But I know others who have the aluminum 2-row jobs and swear they cool better. A lot has to do with how radical your engine is.

 

[choppedtop]

I have been running a PRC 2 core aluminium for 5 years with no problems using mechanical fan. In the summer 85/100 degrees it stays 180 on the road, may get to 210 in stop and go traffic. Stock sbc.

 

[T-Bucket Bob]

I have been running a PRC 2 core aluminium for 5 years with no problems using mechanical fan. In the summer 85/100 degrees it stays 180 on the road, may get to 210 in stop and go traffic. Stock sbc.

Where did purchase your radiator and fan?

 

[choppedtop]

I purchased my radiator through Spirit, but you can buy direct from PRC Radiators. I run a flex fan from Speedway. Part # 910-156-17. I do keep an eye on the fan because some say they aren't safe, but so far, so good. Radiator is chopped version used with Spirits chopped 32 grill. Part #SC1403, which may be Spirits part #.

 

[409T]

Here is some good radiator info: Radiator Core Styles Cool Craft

 

[PotvinGuy]

Just a thought: when I built my bucket, I needed a radiator of exact size and had it made by a radiator shop. I was able to pick the type and location of the fittings I wanted. Did AN fittings for the main lines and 4 pipe threads for sensors, gauges and drains. It was $300, but that was 20 years ago.

 

[fluidfloyd]

Just a thought: when I built my bucket, I needed a radiator of exact size and had it made by a radiator shop. I was able to pick the type and location of the fittings I wanted. Did AN fittings for the main lines and 4 pipe threads for sensors, gauges and drains. It was $300, but that was 20 years ago.

Ever sense I first saw your car at the Fort Worth Goodguys I have always liked that front drive blower.

 

[Gerry]

Me too. Built for the car. As said, not cheap, but exactly right IMHO.

 

[PotvinGuy]

Thanks guys. The Potvin was easier to do than I thought (well, it does help if you start from scratch and build the car to accommodate it!), and Moon, who bought Potvin in 1963, still has all the pieces. It was the EFI that really made me crazy. 20 years ago no one was making good aftermarket EFI. Now I have the FAST system and driving is carefree and fun.