Classic/Antique Car Repair: 69 ford failane 302, head gasket leak, freeze plugs

Question
rebuilt engine 302 30 thousand bore stock new rad pump therm gets hot idling it keep going up and up 230 and we stop block check for head gasket leak none pulled freeze plugs no blockage flushed block big screamen fan fan shroud timing carb set going to shoot it soon any idea? i am in cooling business and am lost thank you tom

Answer
Two things come to mind. First, the thermostat could be installed upside down. Second, make sure that you have the correct water pump for the belt system on the engine. If you have a serpentine belt the pump runs in the opposite direction from when equipped with a V belt.
Brad