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I restored my 1937 Packard Super-Eight 30 years ago.

Unfortunately, I did not have the foresight to periodically remove the temperature bulb from the head and now it is stuck.

The retaining fastener and sleeve easily came out, but the bulb is stuck from rust? corrosion? whatever....

I am trying to soak it with penetrating fluid, but wonder if any reader has crossed this bridge and has a great hack.

I am hoping to avoid 'major surgery' of removing the head...etc...



Thanks for reading this post



Bob

I think it is probably calcium like deposits around the bulb rather than rust. I have not done it but wonder if it would be worth trying some of the products used for removing lime deposits -- or maybe one of the radiator flushing products.

It should be possible to use some modeling clay to make sort of a dam or plug around the opening to keep the product surrounding the bulb while it works for a day or so. Maybe change it a couple of times too. Doubt it would hurt anything to try but no idea if it would work either.

I have had some luck cleaning things with EvapoRust. I wonder if it would be EvapoOtherCrud, too. The possibility exists.


The dam idea is good. Never discount chewing gum, either.

CLR too maybe? Works around our place with my plumbing that carries water that seems to be 50% limestone.
Bob J.

Thanks for the suggestions, but directions for CLR..."Do not use CLR on:......
copper, brass.....etc.

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What about a solution of oxalic acid or one of the radiator flush products. In some of the older threads Oxalic acid has been recommended for cleaning the cooling system. The acid does not seem to damage anything when used and acid should work on limestone deposits if they are the cause of the sticking as well as any rust. In theory it would probably work better than penetrating fluid..