How much room do I need for a short water pump and fan?

I hate starting a new thread for a simple question but I can't seem to find an answer to a question I'm having. I have a '56 Chevy with a small block, and the radiator in the V8 position. I have an electric push fan that doesn't do a good enough job at cooling the engine so I want to switch to a mechanical fan. Only thing is, I have a very limited space between the rad. and the pulley. I think I have a short pump with a long shaft? I'm not sure but I was wondering if someone could tell me how long a short pump with the fan is? Or should I get a bigger push fan? or swap to a short pump to fit a puller fan? or Move the radiator to the 6 cyl. position?

 

if you have a picture it would be easy for some folks on here to tell what you have. might try to look it up on a parts store website and see the difference. hope that helps

 

On a short SBC water pump ... you CANNOT stick your finger in between the pump and the block. On a long you can.

56 Chevys came with two different radiator support positions. One for the 6 cylinder and one for the V8. The V8 positin is closest to the engine. If you need room ... just relocate the radiator support to the 6 cylinder positon.

 

Well, I was going to give you the smart-***ed answer of "less than a long water pump" but Deuce Roadster put the kaibosh on that...

R-

 

Ok, I can definitely see the difference, but how much does the fan add to that?

 

Mine is 6 3/4 from front pump mount on block, to the most forward part of a 4 blade steel fan.

 

Thanks, I have exactly 7" from the block to the radiator so it should just fit, you running a clutch?

 

The 7" space won't allow for adequate fan clearance.