Projects '61 Cadillac DeVille Radiator Help

Now before we get too deep into this, I am a beginner with working on cars and still have got a lot to learn. I'm without a job so its not like I can hire some mechanic to help out with the work. I figured here would be cheaper of course knowing there are a ton of knowledgeable folks here that are willing to understand my situation and give out advice and help.

Well here's the issue:
I found out that with every turn of the key, it starts out great but then things go wrong --and eye burning! Steam rises out from underneath the hood and came to find that I might have a radiator leak. I add water to the radiator to find out where's it coming, So I check underneath and praise the lord it isn't. . . . its just something more confusing. I added some photos so you can see. I can't tell if I need a cap to plug it or if this is some sort of faucet-like turner that I use to block the water from escaping. What do you folks think?



Thanks-

 

It's your radiator drain plug. like a hose faucet if it leaks may need to replace.

 

If you are over heating might be the thermostat or water pump. Turn it on take off the radiator cap and see if the coolant is moving(circulating).

 

Do you know if the motor has had the water pump, or thermostat replaced?

 

Yes. it is just like a faucet, try closing it. If it is still leaking, replace it.

 

Hmm, Thnks men. But I attempted to close it. It must be rusted Tight. I'll try again.

 

Another thing. DeVille has a mind of his own. After taking out the key, he's still puddering and running! Kind of scary, it takes a few tries before I can turn em' off! Out of timing?

 

That faucet thing is called a radiator 'petcock.'

 

Also is it possible I could have burnt up the rings after running the engine without water for over 10 minutes? What possible damage have I done by doing this without knowing at first?

 

Not out of timing if running when key pulled...something is not wired correctly.

The first thing I'd do is replace the petcock...and that in itself might be terribly difficult...especially if it's rusted and won't close. I'd suggest pulling the radiator and taking it to a competent radiator place...they can change that and while they are at it, rod it out (clean it) cost- $50-200...that'd solve the first problem for you.

Once you've reinstalled it, start the engine and let it warm up to about 180 degrees...then pull the cap -carefully - and look inside the radiator to see if the coolant is moving...if it isn't, the thermostat may be stuck closed. If the coolant isn't moving, the thermostat will need replacing. Cost-less than 15

Another thing that could be a problem is the water pump itself...it may be shot and not moving water thru the engine. Cost- 200

Running the engine for ten minutes or so won't hurt anything if the water isn't moving, but it'll get damned hot...I wouldn't recommend doing this more than a cuple of times to see what the water problem is... Cost to rebuild engine- 1500-5000 (Depending on your shopping abilities)

Owing an old car is like a puzzle...it takes time to figure out what and where the problem piece is...

R-

 

Well I sprayed on some magic oil on the petcock to loosen it and I got it to turn close. Added a bit more water to see and there are no leaks. But, Thanks, I'll look into it.

 

Attempted to start em' back up again. Water flowed nicely, but gasket and spark plugs may need to be replaced. Thanks for everyone's help!

 

"hehehe... he said Pet Cock...." (I know, but it still makes me laugh)