was just wondering what the best kind of cooling setup is for these engines. has anyone used a particular combination of radiator/fan/thermostat with really good results?

Nothing special is needed at all other than sizing the radiator to the HP. A stock heavy duty radiator that comes stock on a SS350 with air will cool a 450 HP 406 no sweat. I like the heavy duty clutch fans, stock shroud and a brand name 180 or 195 thermostat. I would upgrade to an aftermarket pump as you will get better flow and distribution.

I took the easy way out, Griffin 1" 2 core 31x19 rad, electric fans, let the thermostat figure out how to heat up the coolant. ;)

rustbucket - I believe I have the same Griffin radiator as you. I'm not sure what the dimensions are on mine, but they sound about right.
I'm running a stock shroud, a flex fan (for now), and a 180 thermostat. With our temps being 20-30, it keeps my car really cool (about 160, even in traffic!).

EDIT - Rust, what size are the fittings for the tranny cooler? I may have to replace mine, and would appreciate it if you could tell me the size of 'em. Thanks!! - END EDIT




-Nate

I'm using a new stock HD 3-row replacement rad, 180 t-stat, a taurus fan w/ spal controller and a stewarts water pump.

Summit universal 31x19 aluminum radiator, Summit high flow water pump, 180 degree thermostat, stock shroud and fan clutch. So far so good.

I just have the universal rad as well and use 2 auxillary transmission coolers in front of the rad instead.

I use a 4-core standard replacement, 180 degree thermostat and a steel flex fan. Runs 180-188 degrees in 115+ degree heat in Arizona even sitting in traffic with a .525 cam and 3500 stall.
Still will not pass emissions though and have not tried it with A/C yet.