[70FormulaCA]

I have a 70 Formula 400, 4spd with A/C. I'm rebuilding the 400 and would like to know what is recommended (brand/part #s would be great) for the following cooling components? Rebuilding with 4" stroke, mild ported #12 heads (compression around 10.5), stock intake/exhaust manifolds, Q-jet and 2.5 exhaust pipes. Factory radiator and fan/clutch. Do not plan on using an overflow system. Weekend/car show driver.

1) radiator cap
2) radiator hoses
3) thermostat
4) water pump

[70FormulaCA]

Any input would be appreciated. I will be reusing my existing water pump.

[stucky2947]

I have a similar build in my '62 GP, and I have found that my stock radiator did not cool well with the high compression. I bought a Griffin aluminum radiator and now she runs 180 - 185 all day in the heat of St. Louis summer. I used the radiator cap that came with the Griffin, I think it is a 14 psi cap. I am running a 160 degree thermostat and use regular ol' radiator hoses from Napa. (I had to find ones that work in my situation since I put a '69 motor in a '62 car.)

Make sure you check the clearance between the divider plate on the water pump, it should be a little less than 1/8". Modify if necessary and use the gaskets when checking. If you do a search on this subject, you will find lots of good info.