Classic/Antique Car Repair: 1958 Ford Fairlane 500 V8 automatic 352 CID, 1958 ford fairlane, ford fairlane 500

Question
QUESTION: The problem is over-heating at idling or at low speed (as in a parade) Never over-heats from 30-80 mph. Temperature will go up to 212 or higher at idling. Any suggestions as to the problem?

ANSWER: Does the car have a clutch fan installed? Let me know.
Brad

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: If you are referring to a clutch as in standard transmission, the car is an automatic. I don't know what you mean by a clutch fan. Thanks

Answer
A clutch fan is a device that goes in between the fan itself and the water pump pulley. It is a device that controls the speed of the fan. The 58 Ford has a relatively low engine idle speed meaning that the water pump is not turning very fast at idle. There are heavier duty fans, with more blades, that can be installed. Or you might want to use a lower temperature thermostat that cold help cool the engine better when idling. In my opinion it is not the radiator as a radiator circulation problem would show up at higher speeds not idle. One question, does the car have air conditioning? If so is it factory or after market add on? Let me know.
Brad