Checking Radiator

[Atticus]

Hello,i have a 72 and it's been running pretty hot in town.cools off when i get out on highway.clutch fan seems to be working ok,seems pretty stiff when i turn it by hand anyway.
i wanted to do a quick check on radiator,as the car sits winters and wasnt even started last year,i'm thinking the radiator might be plugged up.well it gets to about 250 degrees on idle and the top of radiator is cold and bottom half is hot,is that normal or does it sound like it might be plugged?any chance i could save it with a good flushing if it is plugged? thanks!

 

[Bob Chadwick]

Could it be your thermostat? Hot water on the bottom coming from the engine. Cold water on the top with a stuck thermostat that won't let the cool water into the engine.

 

[Atticus]

could be?anyone wanna hit me with a wrench!:bash i was on a wild tangent all focused in and totally oblivious to the basics,doh!
t-stat changed and problem solved.thanks!i'll go crawl away now...

 

[SwaveDave]

Glad you got the problem solved. Some maintenance and visual checks of the radiator might be in order if it hasnt been driven/serviced in awhile , such as :

1. Are the seals around the radiator/condensor in good shape and fitting tight ?

2. Power wash the condensor/radiator surfaces. Do the fan blade too.

3. Replace the upper and lower radiator hoses if they look worn or collapsing.

4. Give the s ystem a good clean and flush with Prestone . Open the block drain valves and radiator drain valve.

5. Dont put in anymore than 20% coolant in the system. Add a bottle of water wetter .

6. Check the airdam in the front of the car underneath. This helps direct air into the front of the radiator.

7. Make sure the belt for the water pump is not slipping or frayed.

8. Check the hood to radiator seal.

9. Check the fan shroud and make sure its sealed up good to the radiator .

10. Check or replace the radiator cap if its old.



Regards, Dave