[RocktimusPryme]

Originally Posted by dataway

To be honest, I think a properly designed electric setup is the overall best way to go.

Oh I agree. I don't even think that is in question. Cost-effectiveness could be questioned, but for absolute effectiveness, I don't think a reasonable argument could be made that a mechanical fan is superior. And I say that as someone with clutch fans on most of my old cars.

I have long been considering an electric setup on my Firebird. I have a Terminator X, and I feel like Im wasting capability by not using it to control fans. I struggle a little at dead stops on hot days. But because I do a bit of bracket racing occasionally, I would really like the ability to cool it down with the electric fans between runs.

I like the way you explained the delta math between the higher thermostat stuff. Its not rocket science but that was a concise explanation that makes sense to everyone.

The modeling in general is an interesting concept. Im a process improvement specialist so I would like to see Pareto style analysis on how much each factor (Radiator size, fan airflow, engine CI etc) should be weighted. So people would know which thing to attack first. For instance, rather than fighting fans, would people be better off modifying their radiator support to fit bigger core section radiators.

How much does CI matter, VS power output when it comes to cooling? Do some common V8s just have better designed coolant passages in the engines? Lots of questions.

I think Im more educated than the average gear head, but I still encounter anomalies.

My 462 Pontiac has a Cold Case, a factory style shroud, with an HD Clutch and a 19.5 inch fan. Its fine most of the time, but will temp creep a bit on hot days at a stop.

The trash old stock 455 Olds in my catalina has a new, but chinesium aluminum radiator, NO SHROUD, 18" clutch fan and runs dead on the 160 thermostat in hot weather. In cold weather its hard to get it to the 160. Ive been meaning to swap it to a 180.

Do Olds engines inherently cool better? Or does the Pontiac making probably 3x the power make it generate more heat even in normal driving?