Re: 1950 Packard 288 Auto overheating HELP

Posted by otgdy On 2011/2/18 7:37:25

Owen, I will take the measurements again. Sure I did it earlier and it was to spec. Didn't check left/right measurements. What do you think about me building a cowl for the engine side of the radiator? Anyone do this on this model ?

Tim, After getting TDC how do you determine where the actual timing mark goes ? Don't remember the timing being at TDC. Hoping the mark is the real one at whatever degree BTC. Checking radiator temp drop with your hand. Doesn't the '50 flow from bottom to top making the top cooler?
To check the temp with my hand I would have to take the front shroud off, wouldn't that affect the temp? No way am I going to put my hand on the radiator on the fan side. They would have to call me stumpy if I did.

Still looking into new pulleys and playing the waterpump rpm game. The slow flow in idle really has me bugged.

Yes all of the splash aprons shrouds etc are installed.
The car ran great from Baltimore to the Bay bridge no problems.. temp normal.. running around 75 mph. Life was good. Stopped at the tolls on the bridge 5 cars in front.
Overheated within minutes. Guage totally spiked. Based on later tests engine temp was easily 300+ degrees. Drove it over the bridge (approx 4miles) before temp went back to "normal" range. No it didn't boil over.. go figure !

If you are thinking continuing to drive it was a stupid move. Your probably right. Wasn't going to foot the bill for a tow off the bridge which is substantial.

In the time I have been messing with this car. I totally restored (rebuilt powertrains,interiors,suspensions,paint) a '80 Z28 4sp, a '78 Chevy Big10, a '65 Impala
and a '84 Wellcraft engine/outdrive/trimpump/interior.

OTG