Having over heating issues with a 1940 ford. It running up to the top of the heat gauge and vaporlocking. I pulled the radiator this afternoon thinking I’d get it boiled out. But now considering buying an aluminum instead. What are you thoughts. Thanks Bob
If your original radiator is reusable, I would boil it out . Those old Ford radiators were very good. They had to be good to cool an engine that ran its exhaust ports through the cooling water. I just had the original rad in my '40 reconditioned as well as adding new Speedway waterpumps and 160 deg. thermostats. The engine is a 3/4 race flathead. So far it is cooling very well. That being said , my other car, a model a coupe with a very warm sbc engine uses an aluminum radiator and it has worked perfectly from day 1. I use a 195 deg. thermostat in it and it stays right there. If the radiator in my '40 ever gives up I will try to recore it so that i keep the stock flavour.
The original radiator in my '41 would over heat within a dozen or so miles. I flushed it a couple times, then ran straight vinegar for a week or so. Then flushed it again, then evaporust for a few days. Stays right at 180 degrees all day after doing that.
I like brass/copper ones myself, how much is one for the '40? This is something you will only spend your $$ on once. I have an aluminum one in my '59, can't say anything bad about it.
I have had 4 aluminum rads in 4 rods I have built. All of them made in the USA and never an issue with any of them.
Indeed, with a aluminum radiator the next thing you will need is a electric fan and usually that don't cure the problem. What engine is in you car Robert? HRP
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