Radiator Cap size

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Aug 2, 2003 | 08:21 PM

tripndrag

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Radiator Cap size

I have owned my 87 F-150 since it was new, 302 engine. It has always had an atifreeze leak, the Ford shop could never find it and I have not been able to either. I have replaced every hose and gasket where water could be getting out, checked the water jacket plugs and soft plugs. The coolant shows up on my O2 sensor wires, I can can trace it up to the side of the oil pan be then the trail ends. Finally at around 125K miles I fixed it by putting a 7lb radiator cap on.

I had some money saved up and had a baby on the way so I bought a new engine and the whole works and installed it, I love it. Figured I would never do it after the baby so I just went for it. Anyway I was wondering if anyone ever had this trouble? I would like to try another stock cap, I think they are 13lbs. I have never had any overheating problems with the 7lb cap I just don't want to start having leaks on the new Mustang shortblock.

Aug 2, 2003 | 08:26 PM

HomerWinzlow

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From: Lawton, Oklahoma

Radiator Cap size

Auto parts stores will be able to tell you which one it uses. They have charts often nearby where they are kept for customers to use as well.

Aug 2, 2003 | 08:48 PM

tripndrag

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Radiator Cap size

I know what cap is suppose to be on there, I just don't know if I want to use it and have leaks start developing.

Sep 12, 2003 | 01:14 AM

tripndrag

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Radiator Cap size

Well, with a brand new engine, new radiator, all new hoses I tried the stock cap and after a week the hoses are leaking, the hose clamps are tight. I went and bought a new 7lb cap and put it back on. I haven't had any trouble with the 7lb cap previously even durring summer while towing so I am going to just stick with it and not have anti-freeze leaks on my brand new setup. My pickup from the day it was brand new leaked anti-freeze until I put on the 7lb cap and I guess I couldn't stop it buying and installing everything brand new either.