ALH/MK1 Radiator and Intercooler

mms140

Member
Joined
May 3, 2020
Location
Utah
TDI
ALH
I am closing in on finishing my ALH swap in my 81 Caddy. However, I am struggling to fit the stock mk1 radiator in, much less with my ebay intercooler behind it. The radiator shroud and fan is right up against the starter solenoid and oil filter housing. I know S&P make the intercooler-radiator combo, but I would prefer to not spend $700 and wait 5-6 weeks! Anybody find a combination that fits well?

Thank you!
 

MrDave

Veteran Member
Joined
Sep 5, 2002
Location
1300 km NW of nowhere
Which MK1 radiator did you use?
The stock NA diesel rad was wider than the mk1 GTI rad.
I used the GTI rad and pushed it fully to the right.
I had a custom intercooler built by Bell, it sits in front of the rad.


I had to clearance the front support to mount the intercooler, and it's a very
tight fit with the radiator. A 2.25" thick core would've fit perfectly. Also,
I had to shorten the safety catch on the hood, as I couldn't close the hood
(the catch was hitting the IC)



My writeup is from a few years ago, but still holds true:
https://forums.vwvortex.com/showthr...t-TDI-Project-Part-8-Intercooler-and-Pipework

Random related photos:












 

PB_NB

Veteran Member
Joined
Nov 20, 2007
Location
Vancouver, B.C.
TDI
1999 New Beetle
I am closing in on finishing my ALH swap in my 81 Caddy. However, I am struggling to fit the stock mk1 radiator in, much less with my ebay intercooler behind it. The radiator shroud and fan is right up against the starter solenoid and oil filter housing. I know S&P make the intercooler-radiator combo, but I would prefer to not spend $700 and wait 5-6 weeks! Anybody find a combination that fits well?
Thank you!
Do you have room for the SMIC that comes on most ALH cars? Those are probably quite available.
 
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