Technical Over heating ? 216 Chevy

The original motor in my 1937 Chevy truck was parked for over 35-40 years. I was able to get the motor fired up but she's running hot, my temp gauge is broken off at the bulb. So I'm not sure the temp.. When I pull the radiator cap off and fire her up nothing happens there is no bubbling. Before I start replacing every thing, what should I do first to try and fix this, not sure if replacing my radiator will do the trick or replacing water pump or thermostat.. Any suggestions ?!

 

first check to see if the radiator is clogging water flow or is clogged. rusty water. you may want to flush the cooling system anyhow. Check for leaks in the hoses. see if the lower hose collapses easily.
then check to see if the thermostat works.
do the basics fluid change. run some 50/50 coolant. make sure the radiator cap is sealing- or keeping pressure, just get a new one for the recommended #'s pressure.

get a infra red gauge to check the running temp. or add a new temp gauge.
have the manual or check only what the normal running temp is for this particular engine.
check the timing, it also cause overheating.


Im sure more people will chime in.

 

Flush the radiator. Repair or replace, if needed. Flush the block. Get a gauge that works. Replace the water pump, hoses and thermostat. Get a 50/50 mix of coolant and distilled water. Why all this? Because you're already under the hood, so get after it. The best finish comes from a great start. No short cuts or easy fixes.

 

Also check the exhaust, a partially plugged exhaust will make an engine run hot.