Very cool indeed

Today I received the new Griffin aluminum radiator and next week I will be picking up all the new fiberglass stock Shelby parts. The cooling problems found in the La Carrera Panamericana are surprisingly underestimated by many of the first time drivers and equally overwhelming to say the least. Most drivers have never driven a race at the altitudes that are common during this exceptional event. For those of you that have never gone thru this process, you can't believe how much research needs to be done to end up with what will be a "perfect" end result. Speaking from experience I can tell you many car builders or racers take too much for granted. In fact from what I have seen over the years of racing is it's the small details that can ruin it all for you. Every single detail must be thought out, well planned and still nothing can be taken for granted. Wires need to be tugged on, bolts that have been tightened need to be re-checked again and again. NEVER assume a brand new part is not defective. Test, test and test again. Have back ups for everything. Our motto at California's Best is "What if?" What if a new part is defective? What if I get hit? What if a burro is standing in the middle of the road on the next corner? What if I forgot to pay my life insurance? Murphy's racing law is pretty darn simple...

If I don't bring it, it will break.

The radiator I have picked out is one of the best names in all of racing and it will serve this project perfectly since it is larger than even the one found in my big block Shelby. While ordering something as simple as a radiator may seem very basic, it becomes even more complicated when you realize all the variables. There is the opening dimensions and any conflicts with other mechanical items. There is the need to know which side the radiators hose outlets are on so they align with the water pump. Which water pump fits the engine, location of the thermostat housing and so much more which means asking lots of questions and more importantly knowing the credibility of the specialist (?) you are asking. For every 100 people that say, "The way I used to do it is..." there are only two who truly "know" what's right. Sorting out who's right and wrong is the real art of building a great car.