Hi guys, I am stumped on fan selection for my 59AB flathead on my Av8 T roadster. I was wondering if the more knowledgeable could point me in the right direction. The car is 26 roadster, 28 un-altered model a frame. Engine is 59AB with the intake mounted generator. Small and compact fan is crucial for the build. For this I am going with a fan hub that mounts below the generator but above the crab trap and has up down adjustment. My trouble is the original 4 blade fan is too large at 18.5”. Did Ford have any other smaller fans that bolt to this style hub size and bolt pattern ? For example, I have a handsome 15.25” 40 ford 6 blade fan that would be perfect but bolt pattern and the small size of the fan center prevents it from mating with the hub. Thoughts?
Thanks, that would put the fan too high on the rad… into the top tank. This is a model T body and a model t rad/shell.
Yes trimming the 4 blade is plan B. It’s going to be open engine car so I prefer the look of the 6 blade over the other 4 blade… but trim to fit is certainly on the table…
Could you mount the fan on the crank pulley? This may also provide some ideas. Technical - Flathead Ford cooling fan | The H.A.M.B. (jalopyjournal.com) Also, read everything listed here that has the word "fan" in it. The Ford Barn - Search Results As a side note: In 1972, the fan blade on my 40 Ford flew apart while I was standing next to my car "revving the engine". Pieces went thru the hood and radiator. Luckly I wasn't killed. Close examination showed the OEM fan blades had developed microscopic hairline cracks and work hardened from years of flexing.
I had a 6 bladed fan on my flatty and it sounded like a frigging jet engine. I couldn't hear it when it was running and because this one runs somewhat to the cool side I changed it out for a 4 bladed. Now I can hear it. Still runs cool. I wouldn't run the 6 blade unless I had cooling issues and had to.
I run a 6 blade 18 in. stainless steel flex I bought from Super Shops years ago on my 8BA with no noise. I am sure the major suppliers still have them.
Do the 4 bolt holes on the black fan line up with the 8 bolts on the hub. Same or similar pcd ? If so, can you just use 4 bolts or drill extra holes in fan, or maybe make slotted holes if close enough ? personally I would bolt a plastic one on for now if not running a hood. I currently run my 8ba without a fan, - but don’t do any running around in stop/go traffic…..
This. I cut my blades approx. 2". Balanced out fine and works great. Make a template and use it to mark out each blade. I used the center hub as my "true" point. Cut the blades on low speed band saw.
The 1942-48 Ford V8 passenger car fans used the same 8 bolt attachment to the fan hub assembly…..and they were 16” diameter. Not sure if that size would work for you but at least you know that a smaller size is out there. They have not been reproduced so you’ll have to find a nice used part.
Thanks for the reply’s and ideas! I thought I could match up a few holes but it’s close but off enough to not work. I hear the plastic fans do work well and pull air better than steel. Who is a reputable supplier for those? I prefer old iron but I have concerns about temp on with the size of this rad and would keep it in mind. It’s brand new Brassworks 3.5” deep but still small…
Great to know, I might have to wait until the swap meets but it’s good to know there is others that might fit the hub. A quick check on eBay reveals some options and insane prices too haha
I ended up cutting down the original fan. Turned out nice and it is certainly lighter. I left it a hair over 15” in length so I can balance it to width. Thanks for the recommendations. I will inspect it when I blast it. For a non-flex fan, what is the recommended distance between the fan and radiator? Mocked up it is 3/4”. Trying to keep it close so I do not have to notch my T firewall if possible for the breather/fuel pump.
That fan turned out perfect man, that 3/4 in your shooting for should be awesome to pull the air through that radiator.
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