New radiator too close to the fan

[Anonymous]

Took out the old 2 core radiator from my 66 inline 200 and put in a 3 core radiator from Auto Zone. I have about a 1/4" clearance between the radiator and fan. I could order a new spacer I guess, but I was wondering can I just cut down the original spacer, chuck it up into my lathe and square the new cut square? If not I guess I will have to buy a shorter spacer. How much clearance is needed between the radiator and the fan?

Richard

 

[MandarinaRacing]

Same thing happened to me with my 3-row from Advance Auto....I was using a SS flex fan with the stock spacer....

How much clearance is needed between the radiator and the fan?

I've heard that the optimum is 3/4" to an inch of clearance, but if I were you I'd be more concerned with the fan hitting the engine or hoses...
By the way what brand is the rad...my is GoDan or something like that...cause I think Slades is a Modine...something to consider ????

Alex

 

[Anonymous]

1/4 is to close to the radiator. I had replace mine after going 80 mph a month ago. I have a little more than 3/4 today after replacing Fan, and radiator.

 

[BIGREDRASA]

You need to find a shorter spacer. BTDT

 

[Anonymous]

The radiator I got from AutoZone is a Transpro Ready-Rad.
I thought I could just remove the spacer and cut it down but I see that it is riveted to the fan, so that idea is shot. So in order to get a new spacer I guess you have to buy a new fan with a shorter spacer. I measured the spacer and it is 1 7/8 inches long.

 

[MandarinaRacing]

There's a wide selection of fan spacers available at Summit Racing

Alex

 

[Anonymous]

Looked at it later this afternoon and realized that the spacer was not riveted to the fan, so I just knocked it off, put it in my lathe and turned it down to the right size. That upper radiator is a real pain to get on at the water pump with the power steering bracket in the way. Do any of you know any tricks to make it easier to get on without having to take the bracket loose?

Richard

 

[BIGREDRASA]

.... so I just knocked it off, put it in my lathe and turned it down to the right size.

Guys like you, Harrie and Der Hakmeister Al make me jealous.