K5 cooling system

[snotrocket71]

hey, i was sitting around thinking what to do as far as cooling for the up coming motor swap. my questions are: whats a good radiator to use with a 400 sbc? i was thinking aluminum, not the plastic aluminum garbage. what kind of water pump is good to use? i plan on using the 305 brackets, would a 305 water pump suffice? or get a 400 specific?, i dont want any bracket/pulley issues. would a 305 fan clutch work well enough to cool? i have one laying around new in the box and would like to use that if i can. as far as hoses, how are the good year hoses that summit and jegs sell? i was thinking of those or just getting ones from carquest (i get a nice discount under my uncles shop). as far as thermostat, would a 195 be better than a 180 or vice versa? just for reference, this truck is daily driven, i use the AC and heat frequently, i do drive down the beach frequently and the 400 is mildly built (well, is in the process of being mildly built: small cam, vortec heads, headers, etc.) id be glad to share any other specifics that would be needed. thanks -Josh

 

[K85 Octane]

I would start with using all the 305 stuff and a new fan clutch. Change the radiator if the old one is nasty. Go with whatever radiator your budget can afford.

The water pumps are all the same for small blocks. The one on my 400 is from my old 350, it is new from Summit, Summit brand cast iron. Goodyear or Gates hoses are good. I always use Gates belts and hoses for everything.

IMO, for you I'd run an HD fan clutch, 180 stat, and large quality radiator. If the Vortec heads have the same bolt pattern for the accessories, everything should fall into place.