Re: radiator for a 288 versus a 327

Posted by HH56 On 2011/5/16 10:34:31

Looking at the published specs, there does not seem to be an appreciable difference in radiators until 54. Until then all are listed as 19.9 or 20qt capacity and a flow rate of 39.1 gpm. The commercial chassis is slightly higher and there was a separate radiator for AC cars--no specs on that one.

As others have mentioned, if it's not boiling over then getting an accurate temp would be the first step. If this is something that just started after the rebuild, then perhaps the radiator does need attention. If it has always run hot, then perhaps an article in the April 53 Service Counselorpackardinfo.com/xoops/html/downloads/SC/SC-VOL27NO4.pdf on some temp gauges reading incorrectly might apply.

Along those lines, would wonder if the temp sender was replaced somewhere along the line or ever. Not having an original spec on the first ones, it is hard to say what it would be unless it is stamped on them. The replacement and later ones in parts manuals thru 56 are listed as 240 degrees. If the temp were verified as reasonable, then at least one vendor sells a sender he lists as applicable 51-6. Might be worth trying if the factory "fix" in the bulletin was never done.