Radiator cleaning
Thread Starter
|
New User
Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 8
Likes: 0
Radiator cleaning
When I first got my truck I noticed in traffic that it would get really warm, it has a regular fan with no clutch and a good fan shroud, but I attributed it to 95 degree weather, I added an electric fan and it got a bit better. Now after going from 2 barrel carb to 4 barrel holley, I tend to accelerate a bit harder, and now the engine seems to be getting pretty warm again. Usually gets between 190-200 just sitting at a red light. It has a 180 degree thermostat. I noticed that during some of the previous paint jobs, it looks like some overspray has built up on the radiator. Anybody know of a way to clean off any buildup and overspray without damaging the radiator? Should I try pressure washing, or a paint stripper?
Fleet Owner
Joined: Dec 2009
Posts: 20,678
Likes: 83
From: NorCal
Assuming the gauge your have is accurate) that temperature range is fine. The engine needs heat for efficient combustion.
I'd be concerned of it were 230F or higher... or if it constantly barfs coolant after shut-off.
Paint removal.. try the least caustic means before going radical with the paint stripper. If the latter, there are spray paints specifically formulated to promote heat transfer. Eastwood has 'em. I recall they also have a fin comb to get rid of those pesky rock/pebble impacts.
I'd be concerned of it were 230F or higher... or if it constantly barfs coolant after shut-off.
Paint removal.. try the least caustic means before going radical with the paint stripper. If the latter, there are spray paints specifically formulated to promote heat transfer. Eastwood has 'em. I recall they also have a fin comb to get rid of those pesky rock/pebble impacts.
Senior User
Joined: Nov 2007
Posts: 120
Likes: 0
From: New York City
Your issue is not a major problem. As HIO Silver said 230+ should raise concern.
Idle overheating issue might be attributed to many factors:
-radiator quality
-improper timing
-manifold/ported vacuum
-correct pulleys
-not propper air pull through the fan
-not propper water pull through the pump
All the best
Idle overheating issue might be attributed to many factors:
-radiator quality
-improper timing
-manifold/ported vacuum
-correct pulleys
-not propper air pull through the fan
-not propper water pull through the pump
All the best
