Aluminium radiator and stuff
Posted: Wed Aug 01, 2018 9:28 am
I am thinking of upgrading the radiator in my MKII from the current standard unit to an aluminium one with electric fan in front. currently the temp rises to 85 degrees if driving gently, but goes higher, to the point of boiling, if driving harder or in high ambient temperatures.
I am planning to use a RadTec ali rad with a Spall fan, as I have seen others using those. But I would appreciate thoughts on whether my plan is sound. Whilst the rad is out, I am going to replace the water pump (which has the slightest bit of nod in the bearing) and the thermostat as a precaution and whilst the opportunity is there to clean up all the housings and gasket faces. I have also invested in a set of 'classic' silicone hoses to replace the full set including the heater hoses. I am suspicious of the heater core, so I will be checking that when I do the job too. The objective is to have something that will be up to spirited driving over long distances.
Now here is my question; When fitting an ali rad with electric fan, have others left the original steel fan cowl in place? It must add to the efficiency of the original mechanical fan, of course. And secondly, do others retain the mechanical fan? Or simply rely upon the new (thermostatically switched) electric fan, which will be a 'pusher' fan on the front of the rad.
Thank you
Adam..
I am planning to use a RadTec ali rad with a Spall fan, as I have seen others using those. But I would appreciate thoughts on whether my plan is sound. Whilst the rad is out, I am going to replace the water pump (which has the slightest bit of nod in the bearing) and the thermostat as a precaution and whilst the opportunity is there to clean up all the housings and gasket faces. I have also invested in a set of 'classic' silicone hoses to replace the full set including the heater hoses. I am suspicious of the heater core, so I will be checking that when I do the job too. The objective is to have something that will be up to spirited driving over long distances.
Now here is my question; When fitting an ali rad with electric fan, have others left the original steel fan cowl in place? It must add to the efficiency of the original mechanical fan, of course. And secondly, do others retain the mechanical fan? Or simply rely upon the new (thermostatically switched) electric fan, which will be a 'pusher' fan on the front of the rad.
Thank you
Adam..