When it comes to high-performance racing, every component must withstand extreme conditions, and the cooling system is no exception. AFCO Racing has built a formidable reputation on the track by producing cooling components that deliver superior heat dissipation and reliability under duress. From lightweight radiators to essential ancillary components, their products are engineered to keep your engine’s temperature in check when the pressure is on.
Selecting the right cooling parts is critical for maintaining horsepower and preventing catastrophic engine failure. This roundup examines a selection of AFCO Racing columns and complementary cooling products designed for serious performance applications. Whether you’re building a dragster, a track-day car, or a high-powered street machine, these components offer the durability and efficiency needed to push your vehicle to its limits.
Top AFCO Racing Cooling Components for Your Build
- AFCO Racing 80100LWN GM Radiator 19 x 22 Lightweight
- AFCO Racing 80161 Alum Radiator Repair Kit
- AFCO 80151 Plain Steel Radiator Cap, 20 Lbs
- AFCO Racing 80108N Dragster Radiator w/ Fan and Shroud
- Derale 13200 Power Steering Cooler Kit, Black
- FILTERUP 10 Pass Aluminium Transmission Oil Cooler
- Hayden Automotive 3800 Dual Electric Fan Kit, Black
- AFCO Stainless Coolant Recovery Tank
- Allstar Performance Power Steering Tank Firewall Mount
- AFCO 85001 Heat Exchanger Oil Cooler
AFCO Racing 80100LWN GM Radiator 19 x 22 Lightweight
This lightweight GM radiator from AFCO is engineered for racers looking to reduce front-end weight without compromising cooling capacity. Its aluminum construction offers excellent heat dissipation, which is vital for high-performance engines that generate significant thermal loads. The specific 19 x 22 dimensions make it a suitable upgrade for various GM applications where space and weight are critical factors.
The robust design ensures it can handle the vibrations and stresses encountered in competitive environments. By maintaining a stable engine temperature, this radiator helps protect your investment and ensures consistent performance lap after lap. It’s a direct-fit solution for those who need a reliable cooling core that meets the demands of the track.
AFCO Racing 80161 Alum Radiator Repair Kit
Even the best radiators can sustain damage, and the AFCO Aluminum Radiator Repair Kit provides a practical solution for quick fixes at the track or in the shop. This kit contains the essential components needed to address common issues with aluminum radiators, helping you avoid a costly replacement and get back to racing with minimal downtime.
It is a must-have for any serious race team or enthusiast who performs their own maintenance. Having this kit on hand can be the difference between finishing a race weekend or being sidelined by a minor leak. The quality of the materials ensures a durable repair that you can count on.
AFCO 80151 Plain Steel Radiator Cap, 20 Lbs
A radiator cap is a small but critical component of any pressurized cooling system. The AFCO 80151 is a 20 PSI plain steel cap designed to maintain the correct system pressure, which raises the boiling point of the coolant. This is essential for high-performance use where engines run hotter than standard street vehicles.
Constructed from durable steel, this cap is built to last and provide a reliable seal. Using the correct pressure cap ensures your cooling system operates as designed, preventing boil-overs and loss of coolant under extreme conditions. It’s a simple, cost-effective upgrade that contributes to overall system integrity.
AFCO Racing 80108N Dragster Radiator w/ Fan and Shroud
This complete cooling package from AFCO is tailored for drag racing applications where space is limited and cooling needs are intense. The radiator comes with an integrated fan and shroud, providing a streamlined solution that eliminates the guesswork of matching separate components. This all-in-one design is perfect for vehicles that require maximum cooling during idle and the return road.
The unit is engineered to provide efficient airflow and heat exchange, crucial for engines that produce immense power in short bursts. By including the fan and shroud, AFCO ensures that the cooling system works harmoniously to manage temperatures effectively. It’s a ready-to-install solution for serious drag competitors.
Derale 13200 Power Steering Cooler Kit
Power steering systems in performance vehicles are often subjected to high stress, leading to fluid overheating and potential pump failure. The Derale 13200 cooler kit addresses this by efficiently dissipating heat from the power steering fluid. Its design uses 1/2 inch copper tubing expanded into aluminum cooling fins for optimal thermal transfer.
Installing this cooler can significantly extend the life of your power steering pump and seals by maintaining a lower operating temperature. This is particularly beneficial in vehicles with high-effort steering systems or those that see extended track time. It’s a proactive measure to improve the reliability of an often-overlooked system.
FILTERUP 10 Pass Aluminium Transmission Oil Cooler
Transmission longevity is directly linked to operating temperature, and this 10-pass cooler from FILTERUP is designed to maintain optimal fluid conditions. Made from T-6061 aluminum alloy, it offers excellent corrosion resistance and durability. The efficient tube-and-fin design maximizes surface area for effective heat rejection, which is crucial for automatic transmissions under heavy load.
By reducing transmission fluid temperature, this cooler helps minimize wear on internal components and can prevent overheating-related failures. The included CPE hoses are flexible and abrasion-resistant, simplifying the installation process. It’s a universal upgrade that can protect one of your vehicle’s most complex and expensive systems.
Hayden Automotive 3800 Dual Electric Fan Kit
For vehicles requiring serious airflow, the Hayden 3800 dual electric fan kit delivers robust cooling performance. The two 12-inch fans are reversible, offering installation flexibility to work as either a pusher or a puller configuration based on your setup. This is ideal for custom applications or vehicles where engine bay space is tight.
The kit includes a complete mounting system with brackets, making installation straightforward. The motors are built to quality specifications, ensuring reliability and consistent operation. Upgrading to a dedicated electric fan kit like this can free up engine horsepower and provide more precise control over engine cooling compared to a mechanical clutch fan.
AFCO Stainless Coolant Recovery Tank
A coolant recovery tank is essential for any sealed cooling system, and AFCO’s stainless steel version combines function with durability. It captures expanding coolant as the engine heats up and returns it to the radiator as the system cools, preventing air from entering and maintaining system efficiency. The stainless steel construction resists corrosion and stands up to the harsh chemicals and high temperatures found in a race environment.
This tank provides a clean, professional appearance for your engine bay while performing a vital role in system operation. Its robust build quality ensures it will be a reliable component for the life of your vehicle, making it a smart addition to any high-performance cooling system.
Allstar Performance Power Steering Tank Firewall Mount
Engine bay packaging can be a challenge in race cars, and this firewall-mount power steering tank from Allstar Performance offers a space-saving solution. Its compact design allows for efficient use of space while providing adequate fluid capacity for the power steering system. The right-hand inlet is designed for easy plumbing integration.
By relocating the reservoir to the firewall, you can free up valuable space near the engine and simplify hose routing. This tank is constructed to be durable and reliable, ensuring your power steering system remains fed with fluid and free from air bubbles. It’s a practical component for a clean and organized engine compartment.
AFCO 85001 Heat Exchanger Oil Cooler
For managing engine oil or transmission fluid temperatures, a heat exchanger is an effective tool. The AFCO 85001 is designed to transfer heat from the oil to the engine coolant, providing a consistent and controlled method of cooling. This is especially useful in applications where air-to-oil coolers are impractical or where more stable temperature management is desired.
This type of cooler helps bring fluids up to operating temperature quickly and then prevents them from exceeding safe limits. By integrating with the engine’s cooling system, it offers a compact and efficient solution for thermal management. It’s a sophisticated component for builders who need precise control over their vehicle’s operating temperatures.
Buying Guide: What to Look For in the Best AFCO Racing Columns
When I’m building or upgrading a high-performance vehicle, the cooling system is one of the first things I look at. It’s not the most glamorous part, but it’s absolutely critical. A failure here can end your day at the track before it even really begins. That’s why so many of us turn to AFCO racing columns. They are purpose-built for punishment, but even within the AFCO lineup, you need to know what to pick. Let me walk you through the key things I consider.
First up is material and construction. I always check what the column is made from. Aluminum is the standard for a reason—it’s lightweight and dissipates heat incredibly well. Look for a high-quality, aircraft-grade aluminum construction. The welds should be clean and consistent; a sloppy weld is a potential weak point for a leak under pressure. The thickness of the end tanks and the core itself also speaks volumes about its durability. A flimsy column won’t stand up to the vibration and shock of a race car.
Next, I think about the core design. This is the heart of the heat exchanger. AFCO offers different fin densities and tube configurations. A higher fin density means more surface area for heat to transfer from the coolant to the air, but it can also be more prone to clogging with debris. For a mostly clean track environment, a high-density core is fantastic. If you’re running on a dirt oval or in a less-than-pristine area, a standard density might be a more practical choice for long-term reliability.
Fitment is non-negotiable. I can’t stress this enough. You need a column that physically fits in your chassis without requiring a ton of custom fabrication. AFCO provides good application guides, but I always double-check measurements. Also, consider the inlet and outlet sizes and their locations. Make sure they align with your existing hose routing or that you have a plan to adapt them. Forcing a hose into a bad angle is a recipe for a burst hose and a lost engine.
Finally, I consider the specific type of racing I’m doing. A drag race application has very different needs than a road course car. Drag radiators are often designed for short, intense bursts of power and rapid cooldown. A road course column needs to handle sustained high temperatures and constant pressure cycles. AFCO makes models tailored for both, so matching the product to your specific high-performance use case is the final, crucial step in making the right choice for your 10 Review of the Best AFCO Racing Columns for High-Performance Use.
FAQ
What makes an AFCO racing column better than a stock one?
The difference is in the design philosophy. A stock column is built to a price point for everyday driving. An AFCO column is engineered purely for performance. It uses higher-grade materials, like performance-focused aluminum alloys, and features a more efficient core design to dump heat faster. The construction is also much more robust to handle the extreme vibrations and thermal cycling of racing. It’s the difference between a standard garden hose and a high-pressure fire hose; both move liquid, but one is built for a much more demanding job.
Can I install an AFCO column myself, or do I need a professional?
If you’re comfortable with basic mechanical work, you can probably handle it. The installation process itself is straightforward: draining the coolant, removing the old column, and installing the new one with new hoses. The tricky part often comes with fitment and ancillary systems. You might need to modify mounts or brackets, and you should absolutely check your fan setup and shrouding to ensure proper airflow. If you’re not confident in your ability to bleed the cooling system completely of air, it’s best to get a pro involved to avoid an overheated engine.
Do I need to use a specific type of coolant with these high-performance columns?
While the column itself isn’t overly picky, your entire cooling system is. I always recommend following the coolant manufacturer’s guidelines. Many racers use a dedicated water wetter additive with distilled water for maximum heat transfer, especially in series that restrict glycol-based antifreeze. For street-driven performance cars, a high-quality, phosphate-free antifreeze mixed with distilled water is my go-to. The key is to avoid using tap water, as the minerals can cause corrosion and scaling inside your brand-new column.
My AFCO column seems to be running hotter than expected. What could be wrong?
A few things can cause this. First, check the basics: is the system properly bled of air? An air pocket can cause localized hot spots and inaccurate temperature readings. Second, look at your fan and shroud setup. Is the fan pulling enough air through the core at low speeds? Third, consider your water pump and thermostat. An underperforming pump or a thermostat that’s not opening fully will cause overheating regardless of how good your column is. Finally, ensure the column is the correct size for your engine’s horsepower and your type of racing.
Are all AFCO columns designed for the same type of racing?
Not at all. AFCO produces a range of columns for different applications. They have specific models for drag racing, circle track, road racing, and even street performance. A drag racing column might be lighter and designed for rapid heat rejection in short bursts, while a road race column is built to manage sustained high heat and pressure. It’s important to select a model that matches your specific high-performance use case to get the best results from your 10 Review of the Best AFCO Racing Columns for High-Performance Use.
How often should I inspect or service my racing column?
I give my cooling system a thorough look before every race weekend. That means a visual inspection for any signs of leaks, cracks, or physical damage from debris. I also check the fins for being bent or clogged. At least once a season, I’ll pull the column out and flush it with water in the reverse direction of flow to clear out any sediment. It seems like a lot, but preventative maintenance on your cooling system is cheap insurance compared to the cost of a new engine.