S1 holden 186

[shamirj]

hi all,

Have had LR's with holden before but the S1 i am repairing rebuilding has a 186 with the front cross member almost non existent, just wondering the reason the cross members are butchered are primarily so that the radiator fan does not touch the cross member, so if this is the case could i install an elec fan and replace the cross member as per original factory fitment. thanks

[Lotz-A-Landies]

Hi Joe

The reason for modifying the front cross member is to aid moving the radiator forward and as you suggest allowing room for the engine fan. I seem to remember a Holden six powered Landy without moving the radiator but IIRC the water pump boss was very close to the radiator core. It also requires you fit a front pusher electric fan.

Given the cooling problems with Holden powered Landies when working in heavy conditions we usually had both the engine fan and the electric pusher fan with thermostatic control.

[Bundy]

a lot of conversions where similar to this one

https://www.aulro.com/afvb/local_links.php?action=jump&catid=7&id=53

I have used the Holden 149 in my 55 series one a fair bit and it does not get hot off road, mind you it is not as powerful as a 186 so less heat. It has a modified outlet LR radiator. The only issue is in steep country where the Holden carb tends to flood or whatever. The cross member in mine is as per the Johnsons conversion. The radiator is a lot further forward and there is only just enough room for the headlight bowls.
Paul