Classic/Antique Car Repair: flathead over heating, 1953 ford customline, steet stock

Question
Brad,
I have a 1953 Ford Customline w/ flathead V-8.

I've read in "thnder Road", that enhanced cooling is obtained by drilling a hole with a hole saw in the back of the water pump. This hole lines up with a hole in the block.
It makes sense. I'm wondering if you might have some info yey/nay.
bob

Answer
My thought is NAY. For a steet stock engine if the radiator is clean and the head gaskets are not leaking overheating should not be a problem. The hole would probably work for an engine that you wanted to run at high speeds or heavy loads but you could get the coolant teaveling too fast though the system so that it will not pick up heat or get rid of heat in the radiator.
Brad