I need a radiator for my SBC conversion, Ideas? Part numbers? Options

[pete]

I need to purchase a radiator for my SBC conversion and am in need of some suggestions/part numbers. JEGS? Also, will need a over flow canister and hoses.

[Mike Bellis]

As a rule of thumb: You should use a radiator with at least the same surface area as the one designed for the engine.

Most radiators are aluminum, brass and copper. This is how most factory radiators come. newer cars come with aluminum and plastic. Both of these types are good.

Better, is an all aluminum radiator. A dual pass aluminum is even better.

A good small radiator to possibly use is an aluminum dual pass Scirocco radiator. This should be ample cooling for a Subie engine.

The key to cooling is air flow. with or without fans. You need an inlet in the bumper or air dam to direct flow through the radiator. A shroud should be built to force all incoming air into the radiator. You also need the air to leave the radiator. This will require an outlet at least double the size of the inlet. This will create a low pressure area behind the radiator thus causing flow.

The most accepted practice is adding holes in the fender wells. Some flow out the bottom trunk. Care must be taken if you choose the ladder due to suspension mounting points. You could cause a structural issue by removing too much material.

I have use both methods. Both work fine. The downfall to the under car outlet comes into play on dirt roads. If you are driving slow and the fan turn on, dust will blow everywhere and into the car.

Brings us to fans. A fan(s) need to pull air from the radiator. Never try to push air through. A good analogy is trying to push a rope. It doesn't work well. You need enough fan air flow to keep the car cool while in traffic.