Radiator needed for 502big block

[Sknh603]

Currently have radiator that came with car. (5.0 original motor). Wondering if that the same radiator be able to handle 502bigblock since not sure whether one on ffr website is the same one?? So where are some places I can pickup radiator if need be that have similar bolt pattern for direct replacement. Not looking to spend 1200 bucks on new radiator if at all possible...

Steve

[Karl Bebout]

603, you're sure putting a monster motor in your car and going cheap on a radiator is a BAD idea. Do your research to determine the right style to fit your needs; i.e. cross flow, core size, etc. OR you might want to consider using Evans Waterless Coolant since it has a boiling point af 350°+ and has excellent heat transfer. The stuff is pricey and it is imperative that there is NO water in the system.
Lastly, get a two stage fan for an HO Ford Taurus and use the proper relays to wire it.
My 2¢ worth.

[1985 CCX]

Fluidyne seems to cover many needs from my little 289 to the 468 FE.
Tried and true and I think standard for CXS cars now and designed for the opening.
Evans can help as there is no water, ie higher BP
Get a great fan, Cobras heat up fast and are hard to turn back once on the rise. Set the fan at 175F, then it will help soften the peak.
They are about $550 shipped
All in should be $800 with fan and Evans ???

[Topfuelhydro]

Originally Posted by Sknh603

Currently have radiator that came with car. (5.0 original motor). Wondering if that the same radiator be able to handle 502bigblock since not sure whether one on ffr website is the same one?? So where are some places I can pickup radiator if need be that have similar bolt pattern for direct replacement. Not looking to spend 1200 bucks on new radiator if at all possible...

Steve

I'm running the FF (MK3) radiator that came with my car with a 504 cu in big block. No issues at all. May be worth a try to see if it cools your engine as well.

Steven

[Mongoose930]

I have a 482 cu FE with a Fluidyne radiator and a good puller fan with a combination thermostat and override switch. I have been caught in traffic jams twice on 90 degree days and had no issues while crawling in traffic for 30+ minutes.

[Karl Bebout]

Since Evans has such a high boiling point, there is very little pressure in the cooling system. Easier on the radiator, hoses, and connections. It also lubricates the water pump, and prevents corrosion between aluminum and stainless steel parts. I think that's called "galvanic corrosion".
Its been years since I had to buy Evans but I'm sure I used to pay at least $40/gallon, but I thought it was well worth in when my overheating problems disappeared.

[novasscnc]

i have an all aluminum small block 427, have Griffin rad with a electric fan with a 170 degree relay, never seen it over 190, had to have the filler cap cut off because the last rad rubbed one nose.

[Sknh603]

I was curious as ffr only sells one radiator on their site so been wondering if it was even compatible with my setup. Def dont want to cheap out but want to be fully sure radiator can handlem it. I'll look at all options. Thanks guys, lots of time and $ invested in my project def looking forward to finishing it up

[Sknh603]

https://lmr.com/item/FHP-2093MU/79-9...minum-Radiator

A 3 core unit. States 5.0 but would this be a sufficient setup, I'll def add fans as well.

[Danr55]

If you have an Fe big block check with Hawes radiator that's what I have in my car and it works great

It seems that for the first time in 12 or so years Karl and I agree on something. Putting a huge block motor in a car and skimping on the radiator it's not a good idea.

[Sknh603]

Don't worry not cheaping out, just curious with ffr supplied one and others out there. Found myself a solid 3 core, dual fan setup.