I've successfully installed a Vintage Air system in my car. So far the engine has maintained proper temperature, however I have not sat in traffic on a 100degree day. I'm planning on improving the standard fan and building or finding a shroud to ensure operation under those conditions. Some have mentioned a seven blade fan in the discussion forum with no reference as to application. Same thing with the shroud so any input would be greatly appreciated.
Al, below is a cut and paste from my 6 bladed fan notes for the 1956 Cadillac. Relevant to your case, and as 1956 Caddies are said to run hotter, the 6 bladed fan may be just what you need. I am also not aware of any fan shrouds having been offered for '56 or '55 Caddies, but have seen some fabbed by owners.
My earlier post quote:
"Regarding 1956, and my experience with cooling that may assist. My '56 had a six bladed fan which I assume is factory original, (the regular issued fan that year was 4 bladed). There does not appear to be a listing for the 6 bladed fan in the 1956 (March) Master Parts List, probably because it was introduced August 15, 1956 as per Cadillac Serviceman Supplement No. 3. The fan was listed as Part No. 1464740, intended only for cars equipped with AC, (as mine is). Use of the fan was restricted to customers who complained of engine overheating with their AC equipped '56 cars. So it looks like this was a "secret warranty" deal as no costing was noted. The 1959 MPL also does not list this part number, but it does list other 6 bladed fans and provides 2 apparent part numbers for '57-'58, (but both are different from the '56 number). I suspect that the secret warranty '56 6 bladed fan morphed into the '57 - '58 6 bladed fans. 7 bladed fans are also listed for model year 1959.
The 6 bladed 1956 fan differs in appearance and construction than the '57 & '58 6 bladed fans. I believe the '57 - '58 6 bladed fans will draw more air. Both fit the 1956 fan pulley hub. Other '56 Caddies that year used a 4 bladed fan with a spacer. Will these 6 bladed fans fit your year of Caddy? Not sure, but finding one may be the answer you are looking for, if it can be confirmed they will fit. Perhaps another member can comment on interchangeability. My guess is that it will. My experience is that the 6 bladed fans offer additional cooling protection.
You may also want to check whether your year of Caddy originally had that rubber strip attached to the inside of the hood, that was meant to seal against the upper rad support when closed, to improve air flow."
Hope this earlier text reprint helps.
Clay/Lexi
Many thanks.......I'll keep my eye out for a six blade fan. Anyone who might have a lead would be appreciated
AllCads is having a going out of business sale. I bought the 5 bladed fan I have on my '49 from them many years ago. Maybe they have a 6 bladed fan.
I saw a notice stating that November 30th would be the last day, making their closing effective December 1st, 2024. Apparently, all of their parts cars are also now gone. Clay/Lexi
thanks guys