Hello. My name is Sara I am new to the site. Had a couple questions on some overheating problems for my 1951 Dodge Wayfarer that has the the flat head 6. It is a Hot Rod. I have noticed sometimes it doesn't overheat but most of the time it does. I have checked the thermostat, hoses, water pump, ect. Looking for some other ideas on how to help my gorgeous car! I have read some postings in here to not run a straight 50/50 mix. I have checked for sludge and am thinking of trying the Royal Purple or the Water wetter! Any suggestions for my baby?
The entire cooling system would probably benefit from a thorough cleaning with a flush product. After that if it still overheats, it is probably a matter of the fan not pulling air thru the radiator. A lot of time these old cars just don't have the suction needed to draw cool air in thru the rad. Shrouded fans help a ton. Sometimes the radiator itself is terribly inefficient in exchanging the heat too. That could be from corrosion and gunk built up in it.
Hi. When looking at the lower hose check it with engine running to see if it is collapsing. Many of the old style lower hoses had a steel spring inside the hose to prevent this and often the spring rusts away and if you have a strong pump it can then collapse the lower hose. Just do not stick your hand down there to feel around the hose and test to see if the steel fan is stronger than your hand. Jimmie
The Jalopy Journal
