The stock FC3S radiator uses a
tube/fin aluminum core with plastic endtanks on the top and bottom. The
aluminum radiator core is 1¼" thick. The stock radiator sports a
single-pass, vertical design with ½" tubes. We recommend upgrade radiators
for all FC's; the stock radiator is barely adequate for extreme use, and mildly
modified FC's generate more heat due to increased power output.
Stock
(1987 Turbo II) radiator core dimensions: 22¼" x 17" x 1¼"
Stock (1987
Turbo II) radiator dimesions, including mount flange and endtanks: 25" x
21½" x 1½"
Mazda Competition recommend using a radiator cap no higher
than 17psi - 18psi pressure rating.
It is not uncommon to find the stock
radiator leaking at the crimps seams. The top plastic endtank is prone to
damage just by leaning on it! Be very careful when working in and around
radiator! The bottom, plastic endtank is normally protected by the plastic
floorpan. Do not remove the bottom floorpan or risk damaging the bottom
endtank due to debris kicked up from the road while driving. Try and keep
the floorpan under the engine.
Mazdacomp an upgrade radiator, priced at
around $600. Both Racing Beat and Mazdatrix sell this radiator.
Fluidyne also offers an upgrade radiator for the FC3S for about $450; this core
is 2" thick.
Racing
Beat
Mazdatrix
Absolute Radiator - for good-priced aftermarket radiators
Questions? Comments? Send mail to:
reted@fc3s-pro.com
10/04/2003