Running without a fan shroud?

[k0m0d067]

So I replaced my leaking radiator with an aftermarket/upgraded one (thicker core, more coolant, etc) but of course I didn't think ahead to the stock fan shroud not fitting...

I can make a custom one at work easily enough (I work at a sheet metal/plate steel fabrication shop) but is it driveable for short distances without the shroud? (Were talking 15 to 30 minutes tops)

Obviously it won't cool as efficiently at stops, but what do you think?

 

[Ante_Up]

I don't know how hot the weather is where you're at, but I've driven mine for a couple days without a fan shroud. As long as you're not just stuck in stop and go traffic, or extreme temps, it should be fine temporarily

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[k0m0d067]

Alright, cool...the commute home is kinda stop and go, but not for very long (15 minute drive to work, can take 25-30 minutes coming home)...and it's winter in Melbourne (not freezing temps, but pretty cool)

Thanks

 

[Chris]

Yes, you can drive it without a shroud, but it's not going to cool it as effectively. I would come up with something custom if you're unable to mount the stock shroud on it.

 

[k0m0d067]

Yes, you can drive it without a shroud, but it's not going to cool it as effectively. I would come up with something custom if you're unable to mount the stock shroud on it.

Yep, that's the plan...but need to get the Jeep to the shop to do it.. just didn't know if it would be a deal breaker driving short distances without it

 

[superduty]

Just watch the temp gauge. Don't over think it.

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[k0m0d067]

Yes, you can drive it without a shroud, but it's not going to cool it as effectively. I would come up with something custom if you're unable to mount the stock shroud on it.

Finally built and installed...not happy with the gap between the shroud and the radiator at the top...thinking I will buy some heater hose and split it to fill the gap

 

[Chris]

Finally built and installed...not happy with the gap between the shroud and the radiator at the top...thinking I will buy some heater hose and split it to fill the gap

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Damn! Nicely done, color me impressed. Did you build that all yourself?

 

[k0m0d067]

Damn! Nicely done, color me impressed. Did you build that all yourself?

Radiator was an eBay purchase...the shroud was fabricated at work...all I can take credit for was the CAD work/layout, and programming the laser...a friend pressed it for me and another did the welding

 

[Chris]

Radiator was an eBay purchase...the shroud was fabricated at work...all I can take credit for was the CAD work/layout, and programming the laser...a friend pressed it for me and another did the welding

Well, either way, you and your friend did a great job. Having access to a friend like that must be a real bonus!

 

[k0m0d067]

Well, either way, you and your friend did a great job. Having access to a friend like that must be a real bonus!

Just wait til I start doing a custom bumper/bull-bar

Which, while we are on the subject, reminds me...is there a source for cad files for things like bumper mounting points, etc? Makes it a LOT easier than trying to measure the front end of the Jeep

 

[Chris]

Just wait til I start doing a custom bumper/bull-bar

Which, while we are on the subject, reminds me...is there a source for cad files for things like bumper mounting points, etc? Makes it a LOT easier than trying to measure the front end of the Jeep

I can only imagine!

If there is a source for CAD files like that (at least Jeep related ones) I’ve never heard of it. If there is though, I’d love to know. It would make a great resource.

 

[chino1969]

Radiator was an eBay purchase...the shroud was fabricated at work...all I can take credit for was the CAD work/layout, and programming the laser...a friend pressed it for me and another did the welding

Impressive.

 

[k0m0d067]

Impressive.

Thanks...almost looks like I know what I'm doing

 

[JEEPCJTJ]

That's impressive as all get out.

In that picture it looks like the radiator and the shroud were made by the same person.

As for the CAD files, I bet most, if not all companies that make parts have them...and won't even think about selling them unless they're going out of business. I would be very impressed if someone could prove me wrong on that but it still wouldn't touch that shroud.

 

[Sam Solo]

Finally built and installed...not happy with the gap between the shroud and the radiator at the top...thinking I will buy some heater hose and split it to fill the gap

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That was not what I was expecting to see at all! That is a beautiful fan shroud! That really looks great!

 

[chino1969]

That was not what I was expecting to see at all! That is a beautiful fan shroud! That really looks great!

Thanks...almost looks like I know what I'm doing

I seriously doubt that small gap will make that much difference.

 

[k0m0d067]

I seriously doubt that small gap will make that much difference.

Probably not, but it bugs me

 

[chino1969]

Probably not, but it bugs me

I hear ya. It would bug me too.

 

[astjp2]

I seriously doubt that small gap will make that much difference.

it can, for every 1 square inch can raise the temps a few degrees...which does not seem like much but it adds up in hot temps.