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new motor

kcbugeye1275

Jedi Knight
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I went to my buddy's shop who is building my sc motor. The SCCA runoffs were last week, and now the mtr is coming together. We decided to go with the shielding kit, afraid to be penny foolish and not dollar wise. I initially thought this would be a late summer project, but I think now that it is happening it probably is best, because there is no hurry when you have all winter. Beside the motor, freshen up the motor comp, a different radiator, and repaint the body are the other major things I want to get done. /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/cheers.gif
 
What are you doing for a radiator?
 
I have been told a 76 VW rabit diesel works well, but am open to any suggestions.
 
No suggestions (Frank uses a geo metro radiator). I'm going to put my SC motor into a bugeye, and I'm thinking about trying out the stock vertical flow unit with an electric cooling fan. I'm going to get the car sorted out before pulling it apart for body work/paint so I have time to test out some different configurations.
 
Why a VW or metro radiator? Is this only for race applications?
 
The word about the VW radiator I've gotten is from the race comunity. Simply, it fits and any overheating problems are solved. I am using my car for the street, maybe periodic solo racing(1 or 2 times a year). I have a electric fan on the radiator now and it gets to 225 on the really hot summer days at 75 to 80mph.
 
Is the VW radiator any better than having a radiator shop build up a thicker readiator in aluminum? Or is it as good but cheaper?
 
I bought a new in the box VW radiator a couple of years ago for the kid's race car. I don't recall the part number or VW model it came from (ordered the radiator by size) but it was just under $65.00 (I recall being very pleasantly surprised!) plus $10 for an optional temp operated switch to operate the electric fan (I already had -- $49 via eBay). This was from a retail parts operation.

We did have to remove the stock upright radiator supports but that is no big deal on a race car -- of course that may alter your decision.

Add a little custom plumbing and voila!

It has worked out very well -- had to tape part of the grill on cool days. Considering doing away with the blanking sleeve and reinstalling a thermostat!

Tim
 
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