Keeping An Overheating Engine Cool [Best Cooling Mods]

A heavily tuned engine will often suffer from overheating, so we look at the best mods and upgrades to prevent an overheating engine.

We look at repairs, general care and best upgrade options including coolant additives, electric water pumps and radiator upgrades.

Overheating is a potential problem for vehicles with tuned engines or those driven aggressively. The gaskets in an engine are generally the first to die if it's being driven at an unsafe temperature. The engine's temperature has a tendency to grow uncontrollably and, if not managed, may soon reach dangerous heights. However, additional cooling is normally necessary for sustained periods of high power use, but is unnecessary for brief power surges.

Taking care of engine cooling is essential for track days and highly modified vehicles.

Changes to the cooling system shouldn't be necessary for minor upgrades like remapping or intake and exhaust adjustments.

A clog in the coolant system, a broken thermostat, a failed water pump, improper ignition timing, or another technical defect are more probable causes of an overheating engine than any changes you may have made.

Make sure your baseline cooling system is running as expected for the current environmental circumstances before considering any additional cooling solutions. An average engine shouldn't become too hot under mild load. Large-scale upgrades that add a noticeable amount of horse power will likely need more cooling, although this is just to handle the increased heat produced by employing this extra muscle. Most conventional systems have some extra capacity, so there may be no need to change anything if you don't use it for lengthy stretches. Wrapping the exhaust is unlikely to significantly reduce engine temperatures.

There is some reduction in engine compartment temperature as a result of this, but exhaust heat is contained. Methods to decrease internal temperatures: The change might be dramatic depending on the oil you use. There will be a temperature differential between the engine running on the lowest quality brand and the best quality synthetic of the same grade.

Since synthetic oils retain their qualities for a longer period of time than mineral oils do, the gap between the two widens with time.

Maintenance and repair of the radiators and cooling system. Switch out the inefficient conventional radiator with a newer, better one.

Nowadays, multiple and even triple core radiators are commercially available and might be a wise option for any radiator's upgrading. Modifying the car's exterior may reduce its cooling efficiency, so check that the radiator's front section remains exposed to air.

Keep the glycol antifreeze to a reasonable level. Compared to glycol, water is 140% more effective in conducting heat, while a 50/50 mixture is 60% more effective. Water additives that increase its heat transfer qualities may also be useful in racing vehicles, while there have been reports that some of these compounds might accelerate the corrosion of certain metals.

Avoid restricting coolant flow by ensuring radiator hoses are not kinked or collapse under heat. It is recommended to do this while the engine is running. An electric water pump may boost performance in a similar way by increasing the circulation of coolant around the engine.

Overheating is another valid reason to invest in an oil cooler. The engine's oil temperature is reduced since it is pumped via a radiator. The oil cooler will now serve as a reservoir, so you'll need to add a little extra oil to the system.

A high-velocity electric fan should be installed if one is not already present (fit this on the engine side of the radiator so it pulls cold air through the radiator). For a more thorough job, you should also install a shroud around the fan to direct the airflow directly through the radiator.

To maximize efficiency and cooling, the fan should draw all available air through the radiator, not just what is in front of the blades. To avoid overheating, you might install a temperature sensor in the fan's electrical circuit that triggers the fan at a lower temperature. You should investigate methods to enhance the hot air's escape routes from the engine compartment (this isn't as simple as it seems; you'll need to know where the high and low pressure zones are to accomplish it effectively).
The engine bay temperatures may be lowered and the pace at which cool air flows around the engine can be increased by installing vents at the top of the engine bay and at the sides of the arches. Methods of extreme cooling You may significantly reduce the radiator's temperature by spraying it with nitrous oxide or anything similar; however, you'll need to properly regulate the coolant supply system and refill the gas bottle or reservoir often

[torquecars]

Have you ever had trouble with an overheating car? Did you find a good solution?

[Uce_wess]

I’m in the process of getting a 98 Aristo V300. Looking to do cooling system, suspension and turbo mods. Not looking for huge hp upgrades. Just want it to run as efficient as possible. Is there any info on key assemblies to focus on under the hood? Like types if metal to use or certain kits that should be recommended. HKS seems to be the only option in Japan.

[rajinderminhas]

Got a lexus is200 03 and engine is overheating