Were you running the AC at the time?

Here in Houston, I don't know of a single classic mustang that can run with a simple 3 row with the AC on in stop n go houston traffic on a 100+ deg high humidity day. It simply takes more than that. I realize I may be asking this car to go beyond what it could do when it was new. Still I live in Houston and the car will live here and drive here. Will not sit home on hot days.

Took some temp readings today. The P on my gauge seems to equal 235 deg. Thats too hot but it is stable there and does not go further unless the engine is shut off due to heat soak. This tells me the system is working fine, just not quite large enough capacity. I'll keep digging. I know there are higher capacity fan clutches. The on on our Motorhome MOVES some air when it gets hot, it will not fit the mustang though.

Also found March makes a higher flow rated water pump pulley. Might give that a try. More air and more water flow at idle cannot hurt cooling.

 

Good point. I do not have AC.

If your water temp is over the top when it's 100°+ outside, there are 4-row rads out there that will bolt right in. If your fan extents the same distance or less from your motor as a stock fan, it's the easiest fix to pop a 4 row in.

If you have a C4, you should also install a tranny cooler. They are stock equip an all cars now, but not on your car. I got one new for $45. Great investment if you drive your car every day.

CP

 

I am thinking about a new radiator, that was why I started this thread. If I am going to spend $$ on a new radiator, I really want to do it once and get the best thing out there. Even if its aluminum and I have to paint it etc to make it look correct in the car.

By the way, the clutch fan and 6 bladed fan IS OEM for a factory air conditioned V8 car. Still not sure the 4 core will fit but likely will. Think a high end two core aluminum (2.25" thick) would be better cooling but not sure yet.

Good point on the tranny cooler. Has not been a problem yet but still a good idea. I do change the tranny fluid with every engine oil change. I am under there anyway and installed a drain plug long ago. What's 6 qts of ATF once or twice a year....

I did a dimensional comparison of available fan clutches and there does not appear to be a heavy duty unit that will fit. The trucks used a different fan bolt circle. I am going to try the smaller water pump pulley and see if it helps....then look a radiators if needed but I hope not, I like the look of the stock style 3 core I have now. An aluminum will never look quite the same.