Radiator Options for Ford 302

[DC Townsend]

I'm aware of the custom fabricated versions available from Ted Lathrop and other conversion specialists, but is the stock radiator not sufficient if used with an electric cooling fan?

[BlownMGB-V8]

Maybe in Vermont. Probably not in the warmer climates.

Jim

[rficalora]

If you don't want to modify the frame rails, just look for a cross flow aluminum (or brass) radiator that'll fit between the frame rails (18.25" max) and not too tall (no more than 19"... an inch shorter would be good).  If you can't find one with the inlet & outlets in the right place you can get those changed at a radiator shop pretty inexpensively.  Total investment should be $350 or less... probably closer to $300 even if you have to get the inlet/outlets moved.

And, it'd be very easy to modify the frame rails to accept a wider radiator.

[DC Townsend]

Thanks for the replies. Looks like I'm going to go with one of the specialty Mustang suppliers. Several offer 3 or 4 row versions of the early 'Stang cooler that are about 18.5" (a little under) by 20".  I figure with my motor set-back I will be able to lean the radiator back a bit to make for the height. Plenty of fore-aft room. Cooling capacity is better than a stock 5.0 radiator so it should be more than enough for my 302.

Thought about the frame rail modification but it requires two skills/tools I don't possess - cutting and welding (I should really correct this learning deficiency at some point). I'm a ways away from installing, but will post some pics when done.

[JamieP]

I rebuilt the stock unit with a four core 5/8" tubes and HP fins. I put a pusher and puller on the thing with a HP alternator and it finally runs cool. . .

1973 Stag - ford 302, C4 tranny.