'89 Ranger, 302 Swap, Radiator Options...

[tjm73]

I've been planning out my V8 swap so I can gather my supplies over the winter. Past couple days I’ve been looking at radiator options. I’ve found 4 row 4.0L radiators that are drop in replacements (let’s call them type A) and I’ve seen a 4 row supposed swap radiator (let’s call them type B). Here are what the two types I’ve found look like.

Type B looks like it is designed to tuck into the core support. Is that correct? Type A has larger a core (width & height), but it installs behind the core support in the space that may be better saved for FEAD clearance. I like the idea of the larger core of type A, but I’d prefer the radiator being tucked into the core support like type B. Are there other options I'm not finding?

My truck is an ’89 regular cab short box 2WD lowered if that effects anything.

 

[bobbywalter]

this is always...2wd or 4x4?

if 4x4 is it a big 4x4 and crazy off road shenanigans?

with being a 2ws low rider you can get into airflow issues still.


sub 330 hp the hd 4.0 radiator will do well even with ac if you are using the explorer v8 FEAD...especially with the big electric fan for most street and 4x4 stuff as long as you are not regularly in 100 degree heat.


from there....with higher power or heavy/hot low speed use i open up and modify the core support to make lots of room for underhood activity and a giant radiator. you want air flow. the oem core support holes provided for the stock powertrain just isnt enough.....its barely good enough for a nutless explorer v8.

for a hot rod a summit or speedway say....the 24 inch version of this...would be the minimum

Speedway Ford/Mopar Universal Aluminum Radiator, 24 In. Wide

www.speedwaymotors.com

there was a standard 25x19 that works real good to 500 hp with a mk 8 type fan.

 

[tjm73]

Always 2WD. I'm looking to put a 350-375hp 302 in it and it'll be backed up by a T5 feeding into a 9". So that's what I'll need to keep cool. Truck is bare bones. Power nothing, no A/C. Actually, it does have power brakes. But that's it. No cruise control, roll up windows, vinyl bench seat, rubber floor mat.

 

[tjm73]

Those 24" & 26" Speedway radiators look promising.