Cobra radiator

767Jockey · #1 (**permalink**) 01-25-2007, 08:47 AM

I need to replace the radiator in my Contemporary. Is there any reason why I can't replace it with one that already has a radiator cap on the radiator itself? It seems like most Fords have some sort of seperate tank to fill the radiator from, and I never quite understood why. Is there a reason a "normal" radiator won't work? My car has a 351 Cleveland, so the "correct" surge tank isn't really a priority. What have you guys been using? I wanted to go for a look like ERA has with the aluminum radiator tilted back, and surrounded by aluminum panels. Summit radiators were suggested by someone. Does anyone have anything else you've used? Have any of you CCX guys done this, and if so what did you use and how did you mount it? I saw the Fluidyne Cobra radiator, but at $460.00 it's a bit pricey. Any ideas are appreciated. Thanks!
Doug

pmfranke · #2 (**permalink**) 01-25-2007, 08:57 AM

i bought one from summit for $200.00 , it works great in my 351w powered b and b.

RodgerH · #3 (**permalink**) 01-25-2007, 09:12 AM

The cooling system fill/vent point must be the highest point in the cooling system. If the top of the radiator is below any other point in the system, it will be extremely difficult to purge all of the air and completely fill the system with coolant. Thus the possible need of a surge tank.

Roscoe · #4 (**permalink**) 01-25-2007, 09:14 AM

I had Afco Racing modify one of their 19 x 26 aluminum racing radiators. They blocked off the filler cap, added -16 AN fittings top and bottom and added a drain petcock. All for around 250.00.

Roscoe

Shelboss · #5 (**permalink**) 02-07-2007, 05:42 PM

Hi Doug, I have recored my Shelby radiator in the past because I modified and polished the top tank and wanted to keep it. I would think a radiator shop could recore it. Let me know if they are able to cross reference it. I suspect it is from a Corvette as it would have the same air purge issue and the electric fan is GM.

Ron61 · #6 (**permalink**) 02-08-2007, 03:16 AM

I have a cap on my radiator and have had one since I built the car in 1996. Never had a problem but the top of the radiator is the highest point in the cooling system as mine doesn't lean back. I have also always ran one of the cheap plastic overflow tanks on it so when it is hot I can see how much water pukes out and then when cold it pulls it back in. Works great for me as I am not concerned with originality and looks as much as handling and functional workings.

Ron

double ugly · #7 (**permalink**) 02-08-2007, 03:54 AM

I found one that worked for a B&B roadster I had awhile back. Good quality aluminum radiators. Measure your old one and see what they have that's close.I did have to cut and turn the lower outlet on it for my application. I don't think I paid over 200.00 for it.
http://www.northernfactory.com/HP/default.asp
John

1985 CCX · #8 (**permalink**) 02-08-2007, 04:57 AM

Doug,

Here is the one I prefer!
http://www.absoluteradiator.com/Prod...asp?idProd=306
Of course you know that. Check out Don Parnell, 48 IDA, gallery. He does use one that has the inlet on the radiator. He is in the CCX group as well so he can be asked specifically what he did. I am not sure what he did but it must work with the ponies he is generating.
Good luck!
Jeff