I know that framerail style coolers are not the most efficient, but I am very limited in space up front. Is there any reason why 1 or 2 frame rail coolers would not work? 3200LBS vehicle with 5.3l and a 2800-3200 stall. Thoughts?

Jack

 

I would prefer a plate and fin cooler with a fan myself. You can mount them just about anywhere.

 

In that case, what about a stacked plate setup with fan mounted to the floorboard? Would that provide enough airflow to get the job done?

Jack

 

Old street rods use that set up that you just said all the time. I have heard of coolers in Vette's being mounted in fenders with fans on them. I have even seen coolers mounted in the rear end area's of vehicles using fans to simulate air flow. I think you will be just fine. Obviously the front area of a vehicle is the best place because it has fresh air so to speak. This is not always an option as you have stated. Good luck with your project. Vince

 

Thanks for the reply Vince, I appreciate your time!

Jack

 

I have a couple of these (well, they're at my buddy's
shop, was going to let him use them on his rail dragster).
But I was thinking, cut a slot in the chin spoiler and you
could put the air right to it without it loading up the
condenser / radiator stack and yet not compromise the
air scooping too badly either.

They are about half the area of my present cooler though.
You can get hella long ones, however, and maybe this
idea with a long 2-pass would work out well. The space
behind the chin spoiler is pretty much wasted. Maybe
fab an aluminum replacement and integrate the cooler
with it. Or slot and reinforce the plastic one.

 

I sure hope you are talking about an F-body, because a Chevy II does not have a chin spoiler. 1/3 of the radiator is covered by the front bumper with no airflow coming from underneath.

Jack

 

A plate type cooler is so much more efficent if you can find room.