After finishing the A/C system it became apparent that the no name slim fans I had were not effective enough to maintain cooling.Â
If I let the engine idle for 20 min or more with the hood closed, the engine temperature would steadily rise up to 235f and higher if I let it. Once i opened the hood, the temp would start decreasing. It would take 5min or longer for the temperature to return to normal operating temp with the hood open.
I could have left it this way as i dont plan to let the car idle for long periods, however i do not like to chance it and decided to buy some reputable fans.
Below is the before fan setup Amazon fans, (1) 12″ fan and (1) 10″ fan for a estimated 1400 CFM combined.
I chose (2) 12″ Spal fans, rated to 1250cfm each.  These fans cost me $170 for the pair compared to the $45 a pair amazon fans.
This choice also added a new problem, they did not fit the radiator. This required making a mounting shield where the fans could overlap onto the radiator tanks. Â
Also while the radiator was removed i decided to replace 180f thermostat with a 170f thermostat. I don’t plan to drive the car in the winter so figure 170f will keep the engine temp cooler. Currently I have the fans set to turn on at 196f, and turn off a 194f.  When the fans turn on at 196f, the temp rises to 199f before the fans can start pulling off heat. The fans now take the temp from 200f to 194f in 30 seconds. The engine temp never breaks 200f.
Below is a picture with the new Spal fans installed. They fit so tight there isnt more then a 1/4″ in clearance in any direction.
For coolant im using: Prestone All Vehicles Antifreeze+Coolant – Ready To Use (50/50 Prediluted)
For not particular reason other then it was cheap and available.
