the cleveland has a specific thermostat and theres a coolant restrictor maybe the restrictor is missing?? pull the thermostat and check

 

OK i've got some new ideas now thanks guys

I'm using the RobertShaw 180deg thermostat (part number 333), I thought the restrictor was in there but I'll rip it apart tomorrow and post some photos - maybe someone can help me spot something...


Thanks again

 

Paint the hood white?

 

hahaha that's the first thing i thought when i bought the car - "why the hell doesn't the hood match?"

 

The higher pressure won't help the temp...only the point at which it boils.

The only DOA stat I ever bought was a Shaw...never again.

Is the water pump rotating in the correct direction? That's about the only thing left. According to a friend whoi built a FF5 ther is no markings to show which way the pump should be rotating.

 

NorCalTroy will be along later with an answer.

 

If the block is not stopped up and the water is not circulating because of rust, etc, preventing it from flowing, then most likely the thermostat is in backwards, or the water pump is spinning the wrong direction. If you have flushed that engine and are relatively sure the block is clear, then concentrate on the thermostat and the pump. That new radiator is perfect whether it is a 2 row or not. The cap should be a 13 pounder and no more or less. Throw a bottle of water wetter in there and burp the system. Make damn sure all air is out.

 

The restrictor looks like a small brass funnel (about a 1/2" hole)that is pressed into the block below the thermostat. Be sure to post a pic of what you find... Peter

 

was the engine rebuilt? if so did the freeze plugs get removed and replaced or knocked in and replaced? I have seen where the freeze plugs were just knocked inside the water jackets which casues hot spots and plugs up water flow. just a thought!

 

I'm a fairly new owner - I know the 351c isn't the original, but I doubt there was any major internal work done. Where would I look for these freeze plugs?