QuestionThis car overheats when driven in warm temperatures and when idling. The previous owner had the radiator rodded to try to cure the problem to no avail. What would be the cheapest and easiest way to start to attack this problem. The water pump seems to be working OK. Carb mixture "seems" OK but hasn't had exhaust gas analized. Timing is in normal range. One thing that I think might affect this is the previous owner put an electric fan in front of the radiator, it is only about 8" in diameter and looks as if it might block more air than passes. Would appreciate any suggestions as to what to check and in what order to check them.
AnswerThere is no cheap and easy way, there is only the right way to tackle this problem.
Step 1 is to remove the core plugs from the side of the block and clean out the water jackets - there will POUNDS of mud and crud in there.
If that doesn't cure the problem, do steps 2 and 3.
Step 2 is to remove the water distribution tube and clean it out.
Step 3 is to remove and pressure wash out the cooling pasasges in the head.
After everything is clean, install a coolant filter in the upper radiator hose and run the car for a week or so until the circulating loose particles are all caught in the coolant filter. Clean out the filter and do it again.
Now your car will run cool - use a 160 Thermostat in summer - 180 in winter for better heater performance - get that electric fan out of the way - the factory fan is adequate - these cars do not overheat unless there is a serious build up of mud and crud in the block - and you risk a cracked block by driving it that way.
Dick (still driving his 47 Packard - it always runs cool, and I live in the Mojave Desert!)
