Fan Shroud question

[jfug97]

I have a 88 ranger 2.9 that had no shroud when I bought it, it runs just a tad on the warm side, will no shroud make it run very much hotter?

 

[Natedog]

I have a 88 ranger 2.9 that had no shroud when I bought it, it runs just a tad on the warm side, will no shroud make it run very much hotter?

Certainly can, I wouldn't run without one as it reduces cooling efficiency alot especially at lower road speeds.

 

[RobbieD]

^ +1

 

[MAKG]

Frankly, 2.9L cooling systems are marginal even with a manual transmission (no ATF cooler) and a fan shroud. You NEED the fan shroud. 2.9Ls are prone to head cracks, so you want that cooling system in top shape.

 

[rickcdewitt]

while you are at the wreckers getting a shroud don't forget to find a 4.0l radiator(explorer or ranger) to go with it,it bolts in.

 

[Natedog]

while you are at the wreckers getting a shroud don't forget to find a 4.0l radiator(explorer or ranger) to go with it,it bolts in.

I did that for several years and didn't find it necessary and have since gone back to the stock Ranger radiator. If you have an automatic you should be runnning an extra cooler in addition to the trans cooler in the radiator.

 

[azhrei]

I have been running with out one since putting a body lift in... there is nothing for me to lower the radaitor since it came from a junk yard...

 

[MAKG]

while you are at the wreckers getting a shroud don't forget to find a 4.0l radiator(explorer or ranger) to go with it,it bolts in.

I strongly recommend AGAINST junkyard rust containers, oh I mean radiators. They aren't very expensive brand new, and they might prevent a several-thousand-dollar disaster.

And the stock transmission cooler is completely adequate unless the transmission is slipping or is severely overloaded. Don't judge by size; heat transfer to water is FAR FAR FAR faster and more effective than heat transfer to dilute gasses such as air.

Something I've been wondering about these body lifts -- is it possible to jack up the ENGINE MOUNTS to move the fan back to the correct position? Assuming the transmission were left alone, this would solve a longstanding problem especially on short-wheelbase vehicles with driveline angles. The rear end can be shimmed, but the transfer case and transmission are usually left fixed.