Re: rad operating temperature

Posted by Mike Flanagan on June 21, 1997 at 21:55:33

In Reply to: rad operating temperature
posted by Wayne Parker on June 21, 1997 at 20:43:55

: I have an original rad with a 160 degree thermostat installed.I am wondering what a typical rad coolant (water) temperature ought to be.My rad coolant measured at the top of the rad is between 175 & 185 degrees depending on outside temperature.Is this about right?The stock engine does not seem to overheat.Related to the above, are the replacement radiators superior in their cooling ability to a good original rad in a car that does some long distance touring?There is an extra heavy duty rad sold for about $100 more than the regular replacement rad.Can this cost be justified?Thanks for any thoughts on these questions.
Wayne, I assume you have an original style radiator. These had fewer fins per inch than the modern radiators. Given the fact that your water temp before cooling (the water at the top has just left the head/block and therefore is at it's hottest) is well below two hundred it would sound like you have a good radiator. You could check the flow rate, books say it should pass 30 gals per minute. Being somewhat of a nut I spent $400 on a new modern radiator for my town Sedan. It keeps the engine cool for sure but does not do a lot better than the conditions you are describing. Make sure there is a baffle in the top, keep the coolant clean and your radiator should serve you well. I found a Motometer to be a big help and I didn't have to cut holes in hoses or drill and thread the outlet neck. If the overflow tube is to low and you seem to be continuely adding water extend the overflow tube higher by slipping a piece of 1/4 inch rubber hose over the tube extending to 1/2" +/- below the top of the radiator neck. This will allow a higher residual level of water in the radiator and allow for expansion and contraction. This way you can maintain a water level above the baffle. Some radiators natural water level with the tube sans extension is below the baffle so you're never really sure. You add water the car spits it out you add water.... Since extending my filler tube I have not added an ounce of water between flushes and I drive the car a lot. Some don't like thermostats some do, Quien Sabe'? I personally have them in both cars and drive the Town Sedan in 110 degree heat with noooooo problemo!
God speed under 50
Mike Flanagan, The Model a Fool.

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