quote:Originally posted by Racecar Mike:
Thanks to all for the feedback.
5715 will be powered by an all aluminum 400 CI Clevor engine so the Cleveland specific cooling parts, specifically the thermostat, are different. The Clevor will have considerably more output than the stock engine so I want to optimize the cooling system. A remote thermostat will be used. My understanding of an automotive cooling system’s dynamics parallel George’s that’s why the larger coolant tubes. I'm planning on using 1.5" tube to the radiator and 1.75" return. A high flow water pump will be used. I plan on using the car as much as possible so idle and low speed cooling (flow) are important to me. Am occasional track day is likely (system thermal capacity).
George, Do you mind sharing the metal punch size and grommet part number or source? Thanks!
Mike
I didn't change the coolant flow tubing size on my all aluminum Fontana/Clevor engine, but I did eliminate the surge tank from the high pressure side of the system. A good aftermarket high volume water pump, like a Flow Kool will give you great flow and the smaller water pump pulley that Scott Bell sells is a good idea and actually does lower low speed water temperatures by a few degrees. You still need a good radiator and sucker fans, which I assume you already have. If you are going to make a lot of power and also track the car, you should consider an oil cooler. Just make sure that your oil pump can handle the extra load it will have to by having to pump through the cooler. I am using two oil coolers on my car and I have reduced my track oil temperatures quite a bit.