Radiator replacement problems... not cool!

[undy]

The LSC provided Griffin radiator (600hp rated) has never really seemed up to the task of keeping the big block cool. I went through numerous iterations, inlet shroud, HD fan w/shroud, upgraded electrical system (alternator, larger wires 'n relays); over-drive the water pump, water wetter and a 30% glycol mix. With every change I got a little closer to my goal, but not quite there. The latest and hopefully the last round was to get rid on the Flex-a-lite "Black Magic" fan (2000 cfm) and replace it with the Taurus 2 speed larger shrouded fan (4000+ cfm, apprx). I also did some additional research and found that Griffin made a "800 hp" rated radiator, the same 22" x 19" physical size as my "600 hp" rated one. It had dual 1 1/2" passes vs the 1 1/4" passes of the existing one. The radiator is 1/2" thicker, 3 1/2". I had them build the radiator w/o a filler tank this time, since I'm running an expansion tank on my 482" aluminum side oiler. I also got the Hollister dual sensor (180deg and 195deg) harness and relay setup to control both speeds. I spent yesterday morning pulling the cooling system apart to start the conversion. To my dismay, I found that evidently LCS has a "custom" radiator built for them by Griffin. The passenger's side lower water outlet is 3" higher up on the side tank to clear the steering rack than Griffin's standard bill-o-fare for the lower outlet. The outlet is directly behind the rack and is 100% inaccessible. I called a local custom speed shop that does extensive mig/tig work and they reported that they've had problems in the past modifying Griffins in such a fashion due to the epoxy sealer at the radiator end tube sheets. They ended up with non-repairable leaks. I've boxed it back up for shipping back to Griffin. I'll get on the horn with them tomorrow to see if they can do the mod ... or ... credit me and build another custom radiator, to the LSC's spec only with the 1 1/2" tubes. I hate losing the Cobra during prime time riding season...

When it comes to Cobras, it typically seems that no good deed goes unpunished...

Dave