Re: First drive / Thermostat ?

Posted by HH56 On 2023/2/19 21:28:08

51-2 standard thermostat was 160 degree and there was an optional 180. For 53-4 they went to a 170 standard with the 180 still optional. 1950 and earlier did have a lower temp option and while maybe not a current factory option it was still available thru the dealers if the customer needed it. In a hot desert climate you would probably want the lower temp thermostat so it opens and the water can start circulating before engine and water gets too hot and the ambient air hinders cooling. In an extremely cold northern or arctic type climate you would want the 180 degree for better heater operation. In a lot of places back then it was not uncommon to have the car go into the dealer for a fall or spring inspection and during the checks the thermostat was often changed for the expected operating conditions.

Several years since I last bought a radiator hose but IIRC, in most cases the aftermarket upper hoses will be a bit long on one or both ends and will need to be cut to size so the bend is at the proper location. There should be enough left over after cutting to size for the short straight piece.