So I have this 331 Chrysler Hemi that is getting an aluminum BBC water pump and going into a 31 model a sedan...can I get away with just running a radiator thats set up for a Big Chevy, or do I need something "custom"? Thanks, and any input is much appreciated.
Given that you have one upper and one lower radiator hose, should not be a problem. The bigger issue is do you have enough engine setback to run a fan? Things get really tight on early Fords with early Hemis . . . so you really need to plan your engine mounts, firewall, etc -- to include room for a fan (if you're running a mechanical one). I sure prefer to run a mechanical fan - electric ones just don't seem right to be on a hotrod (but sometimes they're necessary). Also, if you're having a radiator made, then have a shroud made at the same time -- though this requires that you know exactly what your fan size and location is in relation to the radiator.
Hemis cool really well. You will be fine with anything intended to cool a similar sized V8 engine. Just make sure your water inlet and outlets are in the right places or have one modified so they are. I'll be running Mustang radiator with mine because it fits well in a 32 shell, but I have a feeling it will get changed. Lots of options out there though. If you're going to increase the performance of the Hemi at all, you need to consider that when making a selection. Don't rule out having one made. Sometimes that's just the right thing to do. BTW... is it a BBC or SBC pump you will be using?? Usually with 331's the conversion kits are for SBC pumps. I think maybe it was PAW that was using BBC pumps though.
I used a griffin with the large tubes and it is aluminum for my 392 in a 40 ford. The rad area ought to be about the same. I had only 4 1/2 inches from the pump hub to the rad a mechanical fan would not fit (to high) to rad fins it needed an offset to lower the hub and there was not enough room to do that, so I ended up with a electric fan and shroud not what I wanted but it works just fine. If you can move yours rearward to get the mechanical in there do it unless it cuts off to much leg room.
Hey 4tford, what size inlet/outlet does your rad have? Gorgeous set up!! Both Hot Heads and Speedway sell the pump adapters either by themselves or as a complete kit, the Chryslers use BBC pumps, and the Dodge use SBC's since they are slightly smaller. Not sure on the DeSoto's though. Thanks everyone!
The rad outlets are 1 1/2 inch I believe. My pump is a BBC from eldebrock. They make custom rads with outlets up to 2 1/2 inches.