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Reply to "Radiator Choices - Cooling System Info"

quote:
Originally posted by Yakone:
Years ago, I had a long conversation with Gary Hall. We discussed different cooling setups. The aluminum radiators while lighter but that advantage isn't worth much, the front of the Pantera is too light anyway, taking weight out of the front isn't a big help. He also recommended the use of a 160 degree thermostat. The 160 degree thermostat is what the '71 Pantera's had from the factory, the use of the 180 degree thermostat was used because of the smog requirements in later models. I have used the 160 degree thermostats, but finding them is very difficult.

My pantera is modified to 435hp, while the stock setup worked for the original it failed at the added horse power. I tried several setups with little improvements. Then I converted the AC condenser core into an aux cooler by rerouting the water from the heater core. This dropped the temperature 5-10 degrees. For the most part, the car runs at 160-165, going up hills it will reach 185 degrees. (That is when the first set of fans come on.)


I had the exact same discussion with him. I had to check to see that it was you that was writing this and not me.

I run a 160 also with the stock radiator. Runs fine. Never goes above about 210-220.

Consider though that if you are running a 16 psi system, you are not over heating the car until about 250 degrees farenheit.

The 16 psi cap is in there for a reason.

Personally I think you NEED to run 235 to 240. All modern cars do by design. If you don't you will build up too much sludge in the oiling system which is detrimental to longevity also.

I am actually over cooling at them moment. You are too.
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