1984 2.8 overheating

[pianoman2]

What we did,

1. Convert that lower T-stat to the upper stat type. Be sure to remove it completely (lower).
The lower traps air in the engine. Ford went to the upper in 85 to solve the problem.

2. Got rid of the small 2 core radiator and went to a Exployer radiator (large 2 core).
3. Went from the 195 F to a 180 F T-sat.
4. Went to a Flex Fan.

The motor now runs on the "M" in NORM where it ran toward the "N" before. Before the truck ran half way during normal operation. But when offroading in the heat, climbing or going uphill it would run toward the top of the gauge. Now with the modifications, we are now on the cold side of the gauge.

Lower to Upper T-Stat Conversion with new T-stat = $15.00
Exployer Radiator with 30 day warranty = 43.00
Flex Fan = 34.00
Fan Adapter = 10.00

We have 3 vehicles that we use offroad. The factory fan w clutch does not keep things cool. We swap all three to the metal flex fans and they pull a lot of air through the radiator.

Where did you find a flex fan to fit the factory style fan clutch? I'll do a search on converting the thermostat to the top opening, but what does that do about the by pass set up? Won't part of the coolant recirculate back to the engine rather than going through the radiator? How would you mount a larger radiator in the 84 Ranger?

 

[strvger]

depending on the application, most flex fans come with a spacer for the fan clutch. or if not, then you buy it separately.

 

[pianoman2]

depending on the application, most flex fans come with a spacer for the fan clutch. or if not, then you buy it separately.

This water pump uses a fan clutch with a threaded on coupler. Can you machine a spacer to go over the threaded part of the clutch so the flex fan can be attatched? That would be about the only way I could see to attatch a flex fan, though I can see the advantages of having the flex fan.