Triumph Repair: 1972 triumph spitfire running hot, auto part stores, radiator shop

Question
Hi Howard, I have a 1972 triumph spitfire . I just replaced the thermostat ( 195) and cleaned out all the coolant hoses, rad, etc.. The car will run hot after short drives and did boil over last week.The hand on the gauge will read hot after short runs.  Any suggestions,   Wayne

Answer
Hi Wayne,

I don't know how warm it is up there now but down here a 195 thermostat is way to hot.

If it is cool enough to use that thermostat you need to get some of the dye from most auto part stores and put it in the radiator to test for "CO". It will change color if CO is present (meaning a leaking head gasket)

There are other possible causes like a impeller loose on the water pump. But first check for CO in the coolant. Incorrect ignition timing and too lean adjustment on the carburetors will also add to over heating.

Test the pressure cap too although it will not cause one to over heat it can loose pressure and cause the coolant to boil at a lower temp and thus loose coolant.

Did you have the radiator cleaned by a radiator shop?

Howard