I have an 84 Z28 305 H.O. that is now on it's third radiator. It has a brand new OE water pump, new heater core, and 195 degree thermo. The radiator was one that I got at O'Reilly's (same one I bought the car with, under warranty), and it has a replacement electric fan. Here is the issue. The electric fan is about 1/3 the size of the radiator, and is too small. It does not pull enough air through the radiator. I also do not believe that the radiator is the correct size for the 305 motor.

So, what I would like to know is, what were the V8 cars equipped with originally, and where can I aquire those things (radiator, fans, etc.), without having to go to junkyards? I will also note that the A/C has been removed, along with the smog equipment (if that makes any difference), and I replaced the air deflector with a fabricated part that works. I wouldn't mind going aftermarket on this stuff either, as I plan to swap in a 350 sometime in the future. I'm just trying to keep this thing running right now, so I need what works. Please help.

 

Maybe the O'Reilly radiators. 3rd one was the charm for me, 1st two leaked heavily at the seams after a couple months. This one was fine for over a year on the old motor and doing great with the new motor.

 

When does it overheat? Idle, while moving?


Does the new fan have a shroud?

Is the air damn in place?

A stock cooling system can handle a 350 with heads and a decent cam without issue.

 

If you want to go aftermarket these guys have a good rep on the import boards and they really stand behind their product

http://www.ebay.com/itm/MISHIMOTO-82...13297f&vxp=mtr

 

Yeah... Go read my review of that exact radiator. First one failed 6 months with only 2500 miles on it. Welds failed on the endtank. And the replacement radiators welds are not even finished...

 

I bought an A.C. Delco rad only to find out that it is made by Ready Rad. Thought the supplier was trying to rip me off so I called Delco and they confirmed it. I would bet my left leg that there is not a separate production line or test station for each different Rad. I am very familiar with factory production lines Sent the Delco back, installed a Ready Rad and saved almost $100. GM's Harrison division was probably spun off long ago. I should not be surprised...it is happening in my industry as well.

 

Welcome to TGO!

I'd get the correct factory single fan for starters, along with a new replacement radiator. Unless something else is wrong, you shouldn't be having that kind of problem with it.

Otherwise, I have the same questions Midas did.