Packard Forum Index » Pre-War (1899-1942)

I am using Evans waterless coolant and car tends to run hot when not moving, as expected, and would like to install a cooling fan on radiator - can anyone suggest a brand/product - it looks like a 16" will fit on radiator side (pusher), not enough room to install on the engine side (puller).

Before I made any mods, I'd try running a 50/50 mix of a name-brand "green" antifreeze and distilled water. If you live in an area where freezing weather is not an issue, a mix of 60% water with 40% green antifreeze is even better. Evans coolant is a specialized product that offers no advantages in older vehicles. The 1937 120 non-pressurized system works best with conventional antifreeze and clean water.

An electric cooling fan can help cooling (a little) at idle and very low speeds, but it will restrict air flow at higher speeds.

Keeping the radiator clean inside and out will help, and keeping the engine in good tune will help. Ignition timing and distributor performance are important, as is the proper operation of the intake manifold heat system.
Anything that restricts air flow through the radiator, such as lights, badges, license plates, etc, is to be avoided.The fan belt needs to be the correct size and properly adjusted and free of oil, but not run too tight. A belt that is too tight can damage the water pump bushings.

If you're overheating while sitting, I'd check over everything before throwing parts at it.

1) Check timing. Late timing can cause overheating that may be masked when the car moves and air is forced through the radiator.
2) Belt and Waterpump. A slipping belt or a water pump with loose impeller clearance can cause decreased cooling at lower RPM.
3) General radiator heath/flow rate.

Another great source of heat--and mediocre performance --is a worn timing chain. You can get an idea of that by turning the engine backwards with a wrench or by rolling the car and see how much of a revolution it takes before the distributor begins to turn backwards.