I'm getting ready to change my 12A out for a GSL-SE (based) 13B. I plan on reusing my WP pully, spacer, fan and clutch from the 12A. Since the new engine will move these parts 20mm forward, will that cause any clearance issues between the fan blade and the radiator? It feels like I have the room but I haven't taken the shroud off yet to measure.

I know all S3 cars use the same radiator and shroud. But what I don't know is if the 12A and GSL-SE used different length spacers, or if the clutches are dimensionally different.

Oh, and I do not want to convert to electric fan(s).

 

To my best recollection, the SE fan shroud is shorter to account for the longer block dimensions. This can be compared between the 12a and 13b fan shrouds. This places the fan at the correct depth to pull air through the Radiator efficiently. Like you, I prefer the stock fan setup for good cooling performance and reliability, as long as your fan clutch is operating correctly.

 

the GSL-SE fan spacer is 20mm shorter than the 12A spacer, although it still fits with the 12A spacer, if you look at pics you've seen it

you may be able to cut the 12A spacer down, although the center bore for the water pump might be interesting to replicate

 

Yeah, I got hold of an extra spacer in case I needed to do this (cut it shorter). But the inside / WP side is coned to fit the "snout" of the pump sticking through the pully. I'll take it to a machine shop and see if they can shorten it and replicate that cone shape. If I do it myself I'd worry about it being out of balance and wearing on the bearings.