Cool/Heat: 61 Lark A/C install

[marks914]

Hi all,
Putting together all of the parts for the air conditioning install in my 61 wagon. I bought an Old Air under-dash kit and the Vintage Air compressor mount, so its all pretty much ready to roll.
While I'm in there, I was thinking about installing a new aluminum radiator, but the car seems to keep a decent temp (right in the middle of the temp gauge) so maybe I;ll see how that goes.
One thing I was considering was installing some electric fans to replace the belt-driven fan. The current fan does not have a shroud, but I have never seen a Lark shroud in person.
Does anyone have any experience or advice on if I may need the electric fans? I would rather do this once and be done.
I was also thinking of replacing the generator with an alternator while I was in there, any thoughts?
Thanks
Mark

[Warren Webb]

Converting to an alternator is a good step. This site will give you lots of info"

http://www.studebaker-info.org/rjtechx3.html#Alternators

If you then decide you want to go the electric fan route, you can do that easily. Just remember to wire it to a relay. Studebaker wire harnesses arent made for lots of draw.

[Carl Purdy]

And don't mount the fan to the radiator. Mount it to the radiator support. I had one on my 51 and it came lose and split my radiator in the middle of no where New Mexico.

[marks914]

I was planning on fabbing up a shroud to mount the fans. The core sits about 1/2" from the support, with a 1/4" rubber seal it looks like the shroud will be 3/4" from the core so I think there will be plenty of room for air to get through.
I guess my question is, is this nessecary or should I just wait to see if we have any cooling issued with the new A/C installed?
Mark

[Corvanti]

i'd wait. better to deal with real problems now, not possible problems later.

may also be better - if the temp does go up - to do an engine & radiator flush, if it's been awhile since the last one, before going to the fan.

nothing against fans, if they're needed...

edit: oh, and yes on the alternator...

[marks914]

Any suggestions on where to run the hoses to the condenser? I am trying not to do much cutting, but it looks like the only route is through the fenderwell.
Anyone have a suggestion?
I am digging in starting today, hope to put in a couple hours a day on it and have it wrapped up this week
Mark