Re: [BaadAssGremlins] Modifications

Hey Doc,

Thanks for the reply. I am learning far more from group members than my little mind can handle!

My 75 Gremlin 304 has always run very hot and I have no AC. While I did no internal engine work (yet), but I have added Headman headers and an Edelbrock Performer manifold w/ a 4 bl carb. Due to starting problems caused by heat induced gas percolation, I replaced the stock 4 blade steel fan with a 7 blade aluminum fan and swapped the stock thermostat for a 160 degree thermostat. I bought heat tape to wrap the headers, but have not installed it yet.

Even with the fan and racing thermostat, on a hot day I can run her up to 210 degrees no problem, which is why your idea about an auxillary fan caught my attention. Frankly, my motor runs great at 160 and I'm working like the dickens to keep it in the 160 - 180 range. However, you mentioned the magic 180 degree figure. Am I making a mistake running the engine at 160?

Charlie

In a message dated 6/9/2006 6:06:13 AM Eastern Daylight Time, AMC74HORNET@xxxxxxxxx writes:

Charlie not being familiar with the nose of a Gremlin I don't know what
the clearance between the radiator and grill is. Do you have A/C? if so
that will probably cut down the clearance like on my Hornet. The center
vertical bolt in hood latch support in my Hornet is right up against the
A/C condenser. On the drivers side in front of the condenser near the
headlight is the A/C drier. I am putting the fan on the pass side. I
also have a clearance problem as the Hornet nose is in a V shape and has
the V shaped rubber bumper filler in there along with the V shaped grill
so clearance is pretty tight. Going through the electrical fans in
Jeggs catalog I found an 8"x8"X 2 1/4 deep fan that should just fit. It
can be set up as a pusher or puller. It has the optional wiring harness
with a thermostat which I will probably get but I will also wire in a
manual over ride toggle switch on the dash. I know from personal
experience with my other Hornet even when it was new that it would run
hot in the 90 degree weather with the A/C on. You can't run a thermostat
cooler than 180 or the engine will not run properly. I have incorporated
the 33 years of modifications I made on my other Hornet into this one in
the last 2 1/2 years I have owned it.
"Doc"