Do I need a 26" radiator?

[stu in wichita]

My car doesn't have A/C, so I plan to install a Classic Auto Air system. It's a '74 Challenger with 318/auto and 22" radiator.

I've heard that factory A/C cars all had a 26" radiator, so I'm wondering if I should change to the larger size - it needs to be replaced anyway.

Do these cars tend to run hot? We get 100+ degrees frequently in Kansas, so I want plenty of cooling capacity. If I go with the larger size, what else is involved? Can I modify the radiator support or will I need to replace it too? Will I need a shroud?

My car isn't a candidate for an accurate restoration anyway, so I don't mind modifying it. The important thing is to make it work well.

Thanks for any suggestions.
-Stu

 

[Chryco Psycho]

You may get by with a 22" ,only one way to find out , but if you are replacing it anyway I would step up .
The shroud is the most important part , it allow the fan to pull air through the whole surface & much more efficiently so even with a shroud the 22" may be enough .
if you want to do it correctly the sheel metal part of the support is available to change to 26"

 

[moparleo]

You also might want to go with a pusher type electric fan. Almost all current vehicles use them. They will not draw any horsepower to operate other than a slight alternator draw. They move air all the time, not just when you are moving. They can programed to go on and off with a simple temp switch. Most radiator manufacturers recommend them and sell radiator/electric fan combos.

 

[HemiMeech]

It gets relatively hot in the summer where you live, so I would tend to lean towards the 26" since you're adding AC. The Challenger has a very small/narrow grill opening which adds to the problem. Bigger is better in this case and for your application.

Meech

 

[stu in wichita]

That all makes sense. There's no such thing as too much cooling capacity.

Thanks for the info and ideas.
-Stu