radiator block question

[steve05ram360]

Looking to raise coolant temps & engine compartment temps, Thinking the radiator block is the best way, quick & easy to undo if temps get too hot.

In doing so is there anything I'm missing? Tranny pan has a gauge so I can keep an eye on that as well...

[Frank Lee]

Don't block right on the rad; do it at the grille- inside or out, your choice. If there's a trans cooler leave the air flow open to that.

[steve05ram360]

Ok thanks

[brucepick]

If you have a ScanGauge or UltraGauge set it to monitor coolant temp.

Or you could run a dash light off the radiator fan wire. But that's almost a "sorry, too late" indicator.

[steve05ram360]

I have Torque (phone app) which I am monitoring IAT's, coolant temp, boost, ambient air temp, calc load and something else (I forget what it is atm).

This is a temporary block which I would most likely remove after testing (unless there is a clear benefit).

[MetroMPG]

It's almost a given that there will be a benefit, but the improvement will be small enough that it may not show up above the usual variability in tank-to-tank results. (If you're planning to do some kind of as-controlled-as-possible test, that's another story.)

So... be wary of using that yard stick. Many modifications on this site are known to work, but they make a very small individual improvement. You'd end up dismissing things that collectively would make a meaninful & measurable improvement.

[brucepick]

Originally Posted by MetroMPG

It's almost a given that there will be a benefit, but the improvement will be small enough that it may not show up above the usual variability in tank-to-tank results. (If you're planning to do some kind of as-controlled-as-possible test, that's another story...

I agree. I also think a grill block is one of the most effective projects you can do especially when you consider the low cost in money and in time invested.

[steve05ram360]

I picked up some foam board from wally world for the test and should have it done pretty quick. I wouldnt view this as an aero mod since the blockage would be behind the grilleThe goal is to raise engine compartment temps along with IATs.

[brucepick]

Sounds good. Expect somewhat faster warmup times so less time spent in open loop.

It may not look aero but by reducing the amount of air blowing around in the engine bay you will reduce the turbulence there. Your fuel provides the energy for that.

[steve05ram360]

there is no open/closed loop... diesel. blocked off almost 50% of the grille & an area open to the bottom of the truck where it could draw cold air. test run time...