So my 65 is off to the shop in a week. I am having them paint the engine bay. My question is can the engine sit without coolant in the engine since I want to remove the old radiator to help save some money on the disassembly.

 

coolant is used to reduce the engine from building up rust and also to stop the water from freezing.I dont use coolant in my engine, just water and Purple Ice.If it leaks its easier to clean up.

 

You want to drain the engine and leave it that way for the duration? Yeah, you could leave it like that for years with no harm.

 

Thanks so much 2+2! Yes, I want to drain the radiator and whatever comes out of the engine as well. Having the engine bay painted and the engine removed so I figured if I can save more money by removing as much as possible that would be great. Tow truck coming this friday to pick up the 65

 

I wouldnt say years. Be aware that water alone will build calcium deposits on aluminum(intake water pump etc) and steel freeze plugs could rust through.My new aluminum heads have a oddball size steel freeze plug that rusted through in less then a year.

 

are you just using a distilled water/purple ice mix?

 

O.k. the 65 should be sitting abotu 1-2 months while it's at the shop getting painted so it will only be teh 1-2 months sitting without coolant in the engine.