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No pressure in radiator

3K views 5 replies 4 participants last post by  wevie 
#1 ·
The patient:  '84 RC, fresh rebuilt 360 (block boiled for 48 hrs), radiator professionally cleaned while out of truck.  Water pump and T-stat are new.

I drove the truck to work this morning with temps around -15* F.  I had good heat from the dash the whole trip (25 miles).

When I got to work I popped the hood to check for any noticeable leaks since this is it's 'maiden' voyage out of town.  Everything looked in good shape, but I noticed there was no pressure in the upper radiator hose.

I grabbed my infrared thermometer and found the bottom end at 170*, the intake manifold at 150*, and the T-stat housing at 170*.  I'm comfortable knowing the engine wasn't overheating on the trip, but the lack of pressure concerns me.  I don't remember the temp rating of my T-stat, but if it's 180 or above, then it probably never opened.  If it's 160-ish then it should have opened and the system should be pressurized.

I suppose there must be a leak somewhere in order for it to not build pressure.  I will check the level before leaving work tonight.

Any ideas?
 
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#3 ·
With outside temps that low, that's probably all you're going to see.  That's why some folks put cardboard in front of the radiator to restrict air flow to make the engine come up to temperature.

And if memory serves, 195 degrees is the stock t-stat you should be using.
 
#4 ·
After work I started the truck then popped the hood to check the level.  I had to add maybe a quart to top off the radiator.

At this point I do believe it is weeping somewhere - most likely the water neck.  Truck will be parked until I can resolve this.

 
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