Re: Overheating-1941 120

Posted by TxGoat On 2025/3/14 9:26:15

Head gasket leaks can be difficult to detect.
Older Packards do not cool well when idling, at best.
If you have an accurate heat gun, checking the temperature at the point where the water enters the upper tank should give you an idea of what is going on. Check a metal surface, not the hose. The temperature ought not be over 200 to 205 F at that point after driving the car a few miles.
When filling the radiator cold, leave about 1 to 1 1/2" of space above the water level, then run the engine until the thermostat opens, then stop it an let it cool. Then re-check the water level. If it is about where it was, put the cap on and go drive the car. I'd carry a few gallon bottles of water, just in case.
Be sure the radiator cap is the correct one for your car.