Best ways to cool an overheating engine

[wizzer]

When you over tune an engine or run it on the track heat can be a big problem, so what are the best ways to keep an engine cool?

 

[TCJBOLDIE]

Assuming that the radiator is clean internally as well as externally and the fan/s and thermostat are operating correctly then I would consider installing vents in the bonnet (similar to a Cosworth Escort) close to the back of the radiator to draw out hot air. do not lift the rear of the bonnet as that is a hi pressure area.
You can also look at using Evans Waterless Coolant as well .

 

[old-git]

Yeah, I am not sure what people who fit rear bonnet raisers are hoping to achieve. I guess there could be some outward flow along the edges of the bonnet. But companies make and sell these things so I must be wrong.

A well maintained standard cooling system will cope with a fair amount of tuning. My Elan, for example, was running almost twice the standard BHP back in the 80s with the original radiator plus an electric fan.

If the timing is correct then a more efficient radiator usually solves the problem unless your are running silly numbers, but then you will have oil temp issues as well

DON'T try to solve the problem by changing or removing the thermostat.

 

[crowley]

I've removed a thermostat as a temporary fix but it doesn't address the underlying problem. In my case the engine would still overheat eventually.

 

[obi_waynne]

Oil coolers can help with heat issues, and are recommend for high load applications such as towing or hard driving.

Exhaust wrap will also be beneficial at keeping the engine bay temps down but at this stage you are looking at very small engine temp drops and we are assuming that every little will help.

 

[old-git]

I've removed a thermostat as a temporary fix but it doesn't address the underlying problem. In my case the engine would still overheat eventually.

Well, of course it will. What did you think removing the thermostat would do? Removing it didn't fix anything, just hid the problem for a while. As the water was running around unrestricted it was unable to efficiently remove heat from the engine so the water running past the temp sensor would be cooler, tricking you into thinking that the engine is running cooler. In fact it will be running hotter!