Classic/Antique Car Repair: Rad, pontiac laurentian, radiator shop

Question
Hi Dick
Still working on my 64 pontiac laurentian 230 6.
The engine continues to overheatThe frost plug is clean,and the waterpump appears OK.
I took the thermostat off which helped a lot,but still runs too hot.
Now I suspect its the rad so I just took it off.
Can I buy a cleaner to pour into it and leave it flat on the garage floor,or should I take it to a shop.
If they thought it needed to be re-cored how much would that cost?
Also,when I put it back on I am going to put a shroud on as well.
I took the fan off,but how do I get the fan base/hub off?
No bolt-does it pound off? Thanks!


Answer
Hello again;  glad to see you're still at it there.

I'd take the radiator to a radiator shop and ask them to "flow check" it - this will tell them if it needs to be rodded out (cheap) or recored (expensive).  If it is an honest shop, you may get away with your problem solved for $50.  The cleaners are not a good way to go - they do very little, and if left in too long can damage the radiator.  Take it to a shop and have it done right.

The fan hub must be stuck on the water pump shaft. This is a very close fit (has to be so the fan doesn't vibrate and ruin the water pump bearings), so you may have to soak it with penetrating oil (I use "PB BLaster", available at your part store) and then try wiggling it gently.  You should be able to get it to move, if only slightly, then put more penetrating oil on it and keep wiggling - it will come off.  Be sure to notice which way the fan blades go on - it's important!

Dick