MK4 Radiator

[Joe Procopio]

Hey guys, I would like to know what size the FFR radiator is that comes with the complete kit. I am wanting to order a radiator today, but do not want to get anything too big or small. Also, I would imagine I would need something without a cap built in as it would need an overflow tank for fill up? Thanks in advance.

[RogerB]

Hey guys, I would like to know what size the FFR radiator is that comes with the complete kit. I am wanting to order a radiator today, but do not want to get anything too big or small. Also, I would imagine I would need something without a cap built in as it would need an overflow tank for fill up? Thanks in advance.

Hi Joe, check out the radiator in the parts catalog:

http://www.factoryfiveparts.com/aluminum-roadster-radiator/

[CraigS]

I don't know specifics but I can say that I have never heard any complaints about the FFR radiator.

[edwardb]

Seems to be some discussion about whether FF is selling the AFCO Racing radiator any more. Like they have for a number of years. My complete kit delivered just this past August came with an AFCO piece. But I've seen where several since then have said their radiator no longer is marked AFCO. And the listing in FF's parts catalog no longer mentions AFCO. I'm almost positive it did before. If true, hopefully the new version/supplier is as good as before because I agree, the AFCO radiator worked very well with about any engine setup and is made to fit exactly.

[Joe Procopio]

Thanks for the response. After looking more at the manual last night and pics online , I think I will be O.K. with some of the aftermarket units I have found. As far as the radiators at FFR, From what I read on the forum, there is a slight issue with the lower radiator hose and the tow clamp on the frame, But it is mainly the price. I have found aftermarket 3 row aluminum radiators for half the price and even found Mishimoto radiators for 50 dollars less. I really do not mind having to make lower mounts if that will be the case.
Edward, I have been following your 20th annv build and checked out your photobucket page, nice work. BTW
Thanks guys.

[CraigS]

Stay away from Summit house brand radiators. My 3 year old one seeps just enough at most joints to give that pink corrosion but not enough to require topping up..

[carlewms]

Joe,

As another input ... and perhaps point of added confusion ... I purchased a Ron Davis radiator from Levy Racing. It comes with twin puller fans mounted in a shroud.

Here is a video of the mockup installation ...


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pPA42vYHzeE

[rickscobra]

On the topic of radiators, I was wondering most are left unfinished. Any pros and cons of painting the radiator satin black?

[Joe Procopio]

Great input, Thanks guys. I found a radiator I think should fit well. I like the lower rad supports in the video. I might have to "borrow" that idea.

[Boydster]

On the topic of radiators, I was wondering most are left unfinished. Any pros and cons of painting the radiator satin black?

Yes, you can paint radiators.

If you use a regular paint, use a lot of caution and spray very lightly to prevent clogging up the air channels.

To me, an aluminum radiator just screams Hot Rod. But if yo wanna go stealth, maybe try this...
Eastwood Radiator Paint, Glass Black (http://www.eastwood.com/ew-radiator-black-paint-gloss-aerosol-12-oz.html?fee=7&fep=164&SRCCODE=GA220010&adpos=1o1&creative=81975490140&device=c&matchtype=&network=g&gclid=CLOa9dyw8MgCFdgLgQodrCIKGQ)

When you do paint, shoot from an angle to get the top edges of the fins and slightly into the fins. You'll get better coverage without having to shoot too thick.

[canuck1]

On the topic of radiators, I was wondering most are left unfinished. Any pros and cons of painting the radiator satin black?

I prefer the blacked out look in the radiator opening and so I used Eastwood Radiator paint on the front surface of my Fluidyne aluminum rad only. It also helped cover the big FUIDYNE logo painted into the front of the rad (logos aren't for me). The side tanks and what you can see of the back of the rad are still bare aluminum but from the front all you can see is black rad core surrounded by Everson's rad aluminum (powder coated black as well) :cool: !

Sean

[cgundermann]

Unless going with period specific twin fans - you cannot beat the current FFR radiator. I researched the heck out of this and landed with the F5 unit. I would recommend going with the Breeze upper mount and adjustable lower mounting bracket system. This is superior to the Facory Five design and allows you to finely tune your radiator angle when you fit your body...

[Joe Procopio]

I wound up going with an aftermarket unit made to fit the newer 2009-2015 mustangs. I had to cut off the top mount tabs, but otherwise its a great fit. I am going to mock up the body later this week so I can mount the side pipes to build the headers. I can verify the lower mounts and positioning at that time. Thanks guys...

http://i610.photobucket.com/albums/tt181/jprocopio/20151105_142640_zpsmerobkij.jpg (http://s610.photobucket.com/user/jprocopio/media/20151105_142640_zpsmerobkij.jpg.html)http://i610.photobucket.com/albums/tt181/jprocopio/20151105_140333_zpsu7djvqde.jpg (http://s610.photobucket.com/user/jprocopio/media/20151105_140333_zpsu7djvqde.jpg.html)
http://i610.photobucket.com/albums/tt181/jprocopio/20151105_140642_zps310ansad.jpg (http://s610.photobucket.com/user/jprocopio/media/20151105_140642_zps310ansad.jpg.html)