Today I changed my Radiator and I was wondering before starting it up are there somethings I need to do other then put coolant in it.DUH

which I read its capacity is 12 quarts?

Also what kind of thermostat should I run in the 1981 Bronco 6" lift np435 3.50 gear 300 Inline 6 bored .030 over? I am thinking of replacing it. I am not sure what temp is in there.

 

New hoses....180 degree thermostat....use distilled water with proper coolant mix....

 

Thanks AZ.
I will go get some water tomorrow.
50/50 mixture?

 

I'd take the opportunity to make the switch to Evan's but then I have three dogs and really have no desire to kill any of them nor do I want to have to replace coolant again and again.

 

What is Evan's, Grey?

 

Use the mix based on the label on the coolant jug and your local temps.

With a properly maintained system, nothing more is needed. Again,........properly maintained is a problem for some. I have run classic Mustangs with over 325 hp and A/C with a stock cooling system and had no problems. Just do as you are doing and all should be fine.

 

Evans is an aftermarket coolant that uses no water. It is supposed to do a better job of cooling and lubing.....some reviews say there are problems also such as higher oil temps and fans running more. I have found many mixed reviews concerning these type products so read up on them.

 

AZ,
I was on their website as you were typing. Ya I am seeing mixed reviews also. Not on their website of course.
For now since I already have the coolant in there for the majority I will sick with conventional antifreeze.
It is good to know it is out there and will keep doing some research and asking around.

 

I'd recommend going with the stock 195° thermostat.
Why suggest a 180°?

 

Because the OEM t-stat for an '81 is 160º according to every supplier I've checked and a little hotter is a little better in most cases.

At any rate, the Evan's is what most OTR truckers run and a significant number of collector car moguls run in their collectible (irreplaceable) engines. Most reputable race organizations have a "NO ETHYLENE GLYCOL" rule so most racers use it. EVERY motorsport organization uses it exclusively in the motorcycle and water-cooled ATV classes. Zero corrosion, near-zero system pressure and the only time you get higher oil temps is if the cooling system isn't working right in the first place. The nay-sayers won't tell you that part. They will just use their argument to continue dumping ethylene glycol into the the water table. There are many who have run it exclusively in their engine for 15 years or more and they have NEVER had to replace it. No water = no electrolysis. No electrolysis = no corrosion to clog radiators and heater cores and nothing to scar and scrape water pump bearings. Do what you will. It is non-toxic, non-corrosive and a lifetime product. Show me a realistic downside and I'll change my mind.

 

I just checked Rockauto, Schucks, and Autozone.

All three list 160° and 180° as "alternative" and 195° as OE.

I've always run a 195 in mine.